Surprising stat shows why Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield could earn new contract
Surprisingly, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield delivers in the biggest games.
According to CBS Sports, the 28-year-old has the second-highest playoff passer rating (102.7) among active QBs. Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes — a two-time league MVP — has the best passer rating (105.7). Mayfield has only started three playoff games in five seasons, but it's an impressive mark.
In Monday's 32-9 wild-card victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, the former No. 1 overall pick completed 22-of-36 passes for 337 yards, three TDs and a 119.8 passer rating. Per ESPN's Jenna Laine, he became the first Tampa Bay QB to throw for 300 yards and three TDs in a postseason game.
"There's something about whether it's you're an underdog or [on] a road game, just having your backs against the wall and knowing it's just your team versus everybody else when you're counted out," Mayfield said following the win, via Laine. "It's always fun to be in that role. Obviously, I'm pretty comfortable in it, but our team has completely embraced that throughout the year."
Many thought the Buccaneers would fall off after future Hall of Famer Tom Brady retired last offseason. They took a flier on Mayfield, signing him to a one-year, $4M deal. Clearly, the gamble paid off.
Tampa Bay should mull re-signing him this offseason. Spotrac estimates his market value is a four-year deal worth $27.1M annually. If it doesn't want to make a long-term commitment, however, it could give him the franchise tag ( a one-year, $35.95M deal).
Regardless, he's cashing in. Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio reported he's earned $2.85M in incentives this season and can make another $750K if the Buccaneers win three more playoff games (including the Super Bowl), and he takes 75% of snaps.
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