Baker Mayfield Makes Feelings Clear on Buccaneers Contract Extension

Matt Brown
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) leaves the field after defeating the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and quarterback Baker Mayfield appear to be on the same page regarding his future.

While a new contract has yet to be finalized, Mayfield made it clear this weekend that he wants to remain in Tampa Bay for the long haul. His latest comments suggest negotiations are progressing in the right direction, with both sides working toward a deal before training camp begins. After reviving his career with the Buccaneers, Mayfield says there’s nowhere else he’d rather be.

Baker Mayfield Says Both Sides Want a Deal

Baker Mayfield
Nov 23, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) walks off the field at halftime with an apparent injury against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Speaking with Eddie Radosevich of SoonerScoop.com, Mayfield offered an optimistic update on extension talks with Tampa Bay.

“I would love to be there,” Mayfield said. “I think both sides want to get it done. Now it’s a matter of finding that middle ground and what makes both sides happy.”

Those comments reinforce what Mayfield has said throughout the offseason. Earlier this year, he revealed he hoped to have an extension completed before the start of training camp, giving both sides a clear deadline to work toward.

While negotiations can often become contentious, Mayfield’s latest remarks suggest the discussions remain positive.

Tampa Bay Has Become Home for Mayfield

Beyond football, Mayfield explained why Tampa Bay has become such an important place for him and his family.

“We fell in love with Tampa, and it’s a great place to raise kids and be around,” Mayfield said. “I want to be there long term.”

The veteran quarterback even compared the Buccaneers organization to his college experience at Oklahoma, praising the team’s commitment to helping players succeed.

According to Mayfield, Tampa Bay is the first NFL stop that has truly felt like home. That comfort level could ultimately help both sides reach an agreement before the regular season.

Buccaneers Have a Big Decision Ahead

Mayfield enters the final season of the three-year, $100 million contract he signed with the Buccaneers in 2024. Under his current deal, he’ll carry a $40 million salary cap hit before becoming eligible for free agency next offseason.

His 2025 campaign wasn’t quite as productive as his Pro Bowl seasons in 2023 and 2024, but he still posted solid numbers while starting all 17 games. Mayfield threw for 3,693 yards and 26 touchdowns while completing 63.2 percent of his passes, though Tampa Bay finished 8-9 and narrowly missed the playoffs.

Despite those results, the Buccaneers appear committed to keeping their starting quarterback. With training camp quickly approaching, the biggest hurdle now appears to be finding financial common ground. Based on Mayfield’s comments, however, both sides remain motivated to make sure he stays in Tampa Bay for years to come.

Matt is one of the owners at Total Apex Media. He is an avid sports & pop culture fan who has been writing for various outlets over the past four years.