Legendary coach Bruce Arians, known for developing top quarterbacks, expressed admiration for Baker Mayfield’s grit and skills. Arians emphasized the importance of mental toughness and football IQ, highlighting Mayfield’s impressive accuracy and enthusiasm. Despite concerns over Mayfield's reckless playing style leading to injuries, Arians encouraged him to be smarter about protecting his body in the upcoming season. Additionally, with Mayfield seeking a contract extension before training camp, Arians remains confident that both parties will reach a satisfactory agreement.

By the Numbers
  • Baker Mayfield has started every game since joining Tampa Bay in 2023.
  • In the last six games of the 2025 season, the Buccaneers won only two matches.
State of Play
  • Mayfield's performance has been hindered by injuries, affecting team outcomes.
  • He has set a deadline for contract negotiations with the Buccaneers ahead of training camp.
What's Next

As the season approaches, Mayfield will need to balance his competitive nature with a focus on self-protection to ensure he can maintain peak performance. Contract discussions are likely to finalize soon, potentially impacting his focus in training camp.

Bottom Line

Baker Mayfield must prioritize health while maintaining his competitive edge this season. With contract negotiations on the horizon, a proactive approach in both health and business could set the stage for a successful year.