Former NFL Agent Breaks Down Target Price for Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield's Potential Contract
For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, things are starting to figure themselves out a bit when it comes to re-signing their current soon-to-be free agents as we approach the free agency period. They signed WR Mike Evans to a two-year deal and placed the franchise tag on safety Antoine Winfield Jr. while both sides work on a long-term extension.
With two out of the top three players figured out, the Buccaneers will now focus on reaching a long-term agreement with quarterback Baker Mayfield.
Mayfield has earned the right to be the Buccaneers starting QB in 2024, but ultimately it will come down to if the money works for both sides.
According to former NFL agent and current CBS Sports writer Joel Corry, Mayfield projects to land around $40 million per year in a deal similar to that of what Giants' quarterback Daniel Jones signed not too far back.
"Contract package: $160 million/four years ($40 million per year)
Overall guarantees: $122.5 million
Fully guaranteed at signing: $85 million"
The money would seemingly work for both sides in this deal and likely would be closer to what Baker and his camp are looking for rather than the Buccaneers' side of things. It was recently reported that both sides are "slowly" progressing toward a deal, but that negotiations began with each side being on the complete opposite end of the spectrum.
Rumor has it that Baker's camp came in high around $44 million per year - showing that they believe Baker has outplayed Jones as a starter in the NFL - while Tampa Bay entered around $25 million per year - closer to what Seahawks' QB Geno Smith is making.
A case can be made for both sides and if they are able to settle around the $35-40 million per year mark, then both should also be happy.
Baker enjoyed a major bounce-back season after signing a one-year prove-it deal with the Buccaneers and proceeded to have one of the best contract seasons; putting up career highs in both passing yards and passing touchdowns. Mayfield is set to continue what he has built upon, but it remains to be seen if that will in fact be in red and pewter come post-free agency.
Stick with BucsGameday for more coverage of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throughout the 2024 offseason.
