Report: Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers agree to new deal

"I wanted a chance to come back," Mayfield told Schefter. "I love coach [Todd] Bowles and the staff. I'm happy to be here, and I want to win more in the postseason."

Mayfield exceeded expectations in 2023, which was one reason Tampa Bay made the playoffs for a fourth straight season. In 17 games, he finished ninth in the league in passing yards (4,044) and seventh in passing touchdowns (28).

More importantly, he developed a strong connection with wide receiver Mike Evans. The five-time Pro Bowler — who recently agreed to a two-year, $52M contract with the Buccaneers — tied for the league lead in receiving TDs (13 in 17 games) and ninth in receiving yards (1,255).

"Me and Baker, we played one season together and I feel like we can build on what we did last year," Evans said Friday, per NFL.com's Grant Gordon. "Whoever the quarterback is, he's an NFL quarterback. But, yeah, me and Baker, we have a really good connection. I think he's an elite quarterback."

Giving Mayfield, 28, a new contract is smart for the Buccaneers. It solidifies the future at the most important position and keeps a player on an upward trajectory.

Last offseason, Mayfield bet on himself, signing a one-year, $4M contract. Clearly, it paid off. He's earned a payday and found a franchise that believes it can keep building around him.