Buccaneers Sign Rams QB Baker Mayfield to 1-Year Deal
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After just five games with the Los Angeles Rams, quarterback Baker Mayfield has found a new home.
According to multiple reports, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have reached an agreement to sign Mayfield to a one-year, $8.5 million deal.
Following the retirement of legendary quarterback Tom Brady in February, the Bucs had a clear need at the position.
And with only third-year quarterback Kyle Trask under contract for 2023, Mayfield now adds a veteran presence, with a potential for a high reward.
Mayfield will enter a good situation with the Bucs at the wide receiver spot, with talents such as Mike Evans and Chris Godwin to spread the ball to.
Despite joining the NFL as the first overall pick of the Cleveland Browns in 2018, his career arc has been somewhat enigmatic.
At times, the 27-year-old has shown flashes of potential stardom.
However, he has lacked the efficiency on a consistent basis to live up to his elite projections.
Throughout his five-year career, Mayfield has compiled a 61.4 pass-completion percentage, while throwing for 16,288 yards, 102 touchdowns and 64 interceptions.
Since being claimed off waivers from the Carolina Panthers in December, Mayfield proved himself to still be a capable NFL starter in relief of the injured Matthew Stafford.
Just two days after coming to LA, he led the Rams to a game-winning 98-yard drive with no timeouts and 1:45 remaining in the game, capping a 17-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 14.
It was the longest touchdown drive of his career, earning him Offensive Player of the Week honors.
Mayfield also led the Rams to a dominant 51–14 win while completing 24 of 28 pass attempts for 230 yards and throwing for two touchdowns in Week 16 vs. the Broncos.
Now, Mayfield heads to Tampa with a chance to restart his career, thanks in large part to the Rams taking a chance on him this past season.
Follow Mike D’Abate on Twitter @mdabateNFL
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