The Tampa Bay Buccaneers aren't playing coy about their most important offseason decision. General Manager Jason Licht has effectively pulled back the curtain, revealing the organization's definitive stance on quarterback Baker Mayfield's future with the team.
A Future Built Around Baker
In a recent interview, Licht left no room for speculation. "Our plans revolve around Baker in the future," the GM stated emphatically. "I don't think anybody wants to see Baker leave the organization. We know everything we need to know about Baker, being with him for three years, and everything is positive." This public declaration, made ahead of free agency, serves as a powerful signal to the league and to Mayfield himself that Tampa Bay is committed to their signal-caller for the long haul.
Proven Production and Leadership
Mayfield has more than earned this vote of confidence since arriving in Tampa. Over the past three seasons, he has amassed over 12,000 passing yards and 95 touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl nods and piloting the Buccaneers to consecutive playoff berths. His fiery competitiveness and resilience have become hallmarks of the team's identity in the post-Brady era.
"He's tough as hell, great leader," Licht praised, highlighting the intangible qualities that have cemented Mayfield's place in the locker room. The GM even noted that Mayfield's personality is a recruiting tool, with players on both sides of the ball expressing a desire to team up with the quarterback.
Overcoming Adversity
The 2025 campaign presented a challenge, as a shoulder injury hampered Mayfield's performance, leading to a statistical dip. Despite this, his standing within the organization never wavered. The Buccaneers view the setback as a testament to his toughness, not a reason for doubt. His current contract, a three-year deal signed in 2024, now looks team-friendly compared to the skyrocketing quarterback market, making an extension a logical next step for both parties.
Licht was careful not to box himself in with a specific deadline, saying, "I don't have a timeline for that." However, the message was unambiguous: the evaluation period is over. The Buccaneers have seen enough to know Mayfield is their guy.
What's Next for Tampa Bay
With the quarterback question decisively answered, the Buccaneers can now shape the rest of their offseason strategy with clarity. Securing Mayfield's services beyond the 2026 season provides stability and allows the front office to focus on building a stronger supporting cast. For fans in Tampa Bay, the uncertainty that often clouds an offseason has been replaced with a clear directive: the Baker Mayfield era is just getting started.
The coming months will be about hammering out the details, but the foundational decision has been made. The Buccaneers' blueprint for returning to the top of the NFC runs directly through their resilient and proven quarterback.
