Tim Heitman-Imagn Images

NFL Announces Punishment Decision on Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Dec 6, 2025 5:09 PM ET

Baker Mayfield began the season as an MVP candidate with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Mayfield was playing like one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL during his third season with the Buccaneers, playing under head coach Todd Bowles.

While the Buvvaneers began the season on a tear behind Mayfield and one of the most explosive offenses in the league, they've hit a rut.

The Buccaneers have lost three of their last four games. While they recently defeated the Arizona Cardinals, Tampa Bay recently lost to the Rams, Bills and Patriots.

Tampa Bay simply hasn't fared well against teams above .500 this season.

To add salt to the wound, Baker Mayfield recently received a punishment from the NFL.

While Mayfield is looking to lead the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the postseason, he was fined $14,491 for unsportsmanlike conduct.

The NFL deemed the play from Mayfield a "violent gesture" after the unsportsmanlike conduct gesture in the third quarter of the team's matchup against the Cardinals.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) looks on during a game.© Nathan Ray Seebek-Imagn Images

Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have five games remaining in their regular-season schedule.

While the Buccaners attempt to make the postseason, they'll play the following teams to finish the season: New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers (twice) and Miami Dolphins.

It's a relatively smooth road for the Buccaneers as they look to win the NFC South and punch their ticket to the postseason.

In the 2025 season, Mayfield has posted 19 touchdowns and 2,600 yards with a 62.8 completion percentage.

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

More must-reads: