One of Oklahoma’s most beloved players in recent memory has found his new home.
Former No. 1 pick [autotag]Baker Mayfield[/autotag] and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers reached an agreement on a one-year contract worth up to $8.5 million, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
It signals a significant opportunity for Mayfield to revitalize a career that has had some tumultuous moments over the last few years.
Mayfield, the No. 1 pick in 2018, was playing in the final season of his rookie contract after the Cleveland Browns picked up his fifth-year option April of 2021. The Browns then acquired the controversial Deshaun Watson from via trade last summer. They shipped Mayfield off to the Carolina Panthers, where he played seven games in Carolina before he was released midseason.
Former No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield reached agreement today on a one-year deal worth up to $8.5 million with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, per sources. Mayfield is now in line to be Tom Brady’s successor. pic.twitter.com/2ZldEPxHY8
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2023
He had a rough season up to that point statistically, but the Los Angeles Rams desperately needed healthy QB play and signed him for the final five games.
In those five games, Mayfield found a groove while completing 63.6% of his passes for 850 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions. He helped the Rams win a thrilling Monday Night Football game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
With Mayfield headed to Tampa Bay, it also signals that the Bucs are less committed to former Florida Gators QB and third round selection Kyle Trask than they led on.
With Mayfield in the building, there will be a legitimate QB competition. Mayfield has far more NFL experience, which should give him a leg up as they both compete to learn the nuances of a new offense under new offensive coordinator Dave Canales.
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