Baker Mayfield: The Buccaneers' Secret Weapon

The Buccaneers have a secret weapon in their lineup, and his name is Baker Mayfield. He's currently in the second year of a three-year deal worth $100 million, which is a steal for the team. They're paying him $33. 3 million per year, which is a bargain for a top-10 quarterback. This year, his cap number is a reasonable $23. 875 million. At the moment, Mayfield is at the bottom of the top 20 highest-paid quarterbacks. He's only behind Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, who are both in similar situations. But don't let that fool you. Mayfield has been playing better than most quarterbacks. It's surprising that no team seemed to consider him as an alternative to other free agents or draft picks after the 2023 season. Teams like the Patriots, Steelers, Titans, Raiders, Broncos, Commanders, Giants, Vikings, Bears, and Falcons all had openings, but Mayfield wasn't on their radar. Mayfield has shown no signs of being unhappy with his contract. In fact, he seems content with his situation in Tampa Bay. He's found a long-term home in the NFL, and that's a big deal for a player who's had a bit of a rollercoaster career. Next year, his cap number is set to spike to nearly $50 million. This is due to a salary of $40 million. An extension and a raise are likely in his future. This will push him significantly higher on the list of highest-paid NFL quarterbacks. The Buccaneers are in a great position with Mayfield. They're getting a top-10 quarterback for a bargain price. And with his performance on the field, it's clear that he's worth every penny. It's a win-win situation for both Mayfield and the Buccaneers. He's happy, the team is happy, and the fans are happy. It's a recipe for success on the field. It's interesting to note that Mayfield's success in Tampa Bay is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. He's proven that he can thrive in different environments and with different teams. This is a valuable trait in a quarterback, and it's something that the Buccaneers have benefited from. It's also a reminder that sometimes, the best players are the ones who are overlooked or underestimated. Mayfield is a prime example of this. He's shown that he has what it takes to be a top quarterback in the NFL, and he's doing it on a bargain contract.