The 2024 NFL offseason looms large following the Kansas City Chiefs’ back-to-back triumphs in the Super Bowl, thanks to the formidable duo of Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes. While the Chiefs bask in their glory, several other NFL teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, find themselves at a crossroads, particularly regarding their quarterback situation.
Baker Mayfield took the reins as the Buccaneers’ starting QB in 2023 under a one-year, team-friendly contract aimed at proving his worth. His performance, which helped secure an NFC South title and a playoff victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, saw him earn $7 million with incentives.
As the dust settles on the season, the focus shifts to whether the Buccaneers and Mayfield can agree on a contract extension, which is expected to significantly increase his earnings. With the recent appointment of Liam Coen as the Bucs’ new offensive coordinator and Mayfield’s expressed desire to stay in Tampa Bay, there’s evident mutual interest in continuing their partnership into the future.
However, the NFL rumor mill suggests that Mayfield could entertain offers from other teams, with insiders Ian Rapoport, Mike Garafolo, and Tom Pelissero indicating interest from an NFC South rival.
“Coaches around the league admire Mayfield’s competitiveness and skill level, so he’ll surely have interest on the market — perhaps even from AFC South-rival Atlanta, where former Rams assistants Raheem Morris and Zac Robinson are now in charge.”
The Atlanta Falcons remain uncertain about their quarterback situation, having cycled through Marcus Mariota, Desmond Ridder, and Taylor Heineke in recent seasons. Given Mayfield’s caliber, he could represent a significant upgrade over Ridder and potentially provide the stability the Falcons crave.
For the Buccaneers, losing Mayfield to the Falcons would be a significant blow.
After the success they achieved together in just one season, coupled with Mayfield’s affection for the city and newfound comfort, his departure would leave a void that could be challenging to fill, complicating their plans for free agency and beyond.
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