Buccaneers face uncertainty over Baker Mayfield's contract extension

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have not set a deadline to extend quarterback Baker Mayfield, whose contract runs through the 2026 season, but the player has indicated he wants a decision before training camp begins on July 28. Mayfield is scheduled to receive $40 million this year, with an average annual value of $33.33 million and $27 million in guaranteed cash, plus up to $5 million in incentives.

Analysts note that veteran starting quarterbacks in the league are currently being paid between the low $20 million and mid $60 million per year. The Buccaneers expect to present Mayfield with an offer that exceeds what other teams would likely propose, and they anticipate he will accept the deal when it is formally presented.

If the team does not use a franchise tag for the 2027 season, the tag amount based on the 2026 salary cap would be at least $47.97 million. Should Mayfield’s performance be modest, he could still explore offers from other clubs, potentially accepting a lower salary to demonstrate his market value.

The Steelers have been mentioned as a possible destination, given Mayfield’s prior experience in the AFC North. If Mayfield were to leave, Tampa Bay would need to consider alternatives on its roster, including Jalon Daniels, Jake Browning and Connor Bazelak.

The Buccaneers’ strategy hinges on securing Mayfield’s services for the final year of his contract while evaluating long-term options at quarterback.