Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Baker Mayfield Makes Decision After Receiving Punishment from NFL

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Parker Johnson | Last updated Dec 11, 2025 2:15 PM ET

Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-6) have a lot to clean up before facing the Atlanta Falcons (4-9) in a crucial NFC South matchup in Week 15 of the NFL season.

After starting the season 6-2, the Bucs have lost four of their last five games, including a disappointing 24-20 loss at home against the New Orleans Saints in Week 14. The struggles have mounted as Mayfield saw some of his best playmakers on offense pick up injuries this season, such as running back Bucky Irving and wide receiver Mike Evans.

Another setback for Mayfield recently was the NFL's decision to fine him and Irving a total of $20,840, which was announced Saturday.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (7) celebrates with quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) after a touchdown during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at Raymond James Stadium.Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Mayfield and Irving received their punishments for making a "violent gesture" while celebrating a touchdown in their 20-17 win over the Arizona Cardinals in Week 13.

Mayfield was hit with a $14,491 fine. Irving's was $6,349.

The NFL fined five players for “violent gestures” in Week 13 — including Baker Mayfield ($14,491) and Bucky Irving ($6,349) for this “nose wipe” celebration. pic.twitter.com/3is4QlZSgJ
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 6, 2025

Cracking down on gestures like the nose wipe and gun motions has been a point of emphasis from the league office during the 2025 season. Three other players, including Houston Texans WR Nico Collins and Pittsburgh Steelers WR DK Metcalf, were also fined for "violent gestures" in Week 13.

In response, Mayfield and Irving made a clear change to their handshake, deciding to ditch the nose wipe. It was captured on camera by BucsGameday reporter Caleb Skinner before their game against the Saints at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday.

After getting fined, Baker & Bucky keep things clean pregame pic.twitter.com/QIvSL6ZVch
— Caleb Skinner (@chsnole) December 7, 2025

As the "Thursday Night Football" game against the Falcons approaches, Mayfield will have to stay dedicated to the new celebration routine to avoid any further punishment. Repeat offenses are subject to increased fines from the NFL.

It is likely to come up again, since Mayfield has found the end zone a lot this season. The 30-year-old QB has racked up 2,722 passing yards, 20 touchdowns and six interceptions this year. He also has one rushing touchdown, matching Irving's total in 2025.

As they eye a fifth consecutive NFC South title and sixth postseason appearance in a row, the Buccaneers close the regular seasons with games against the Falcons, Carolina Panthers (twice) and Miami Dolphins.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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