Key Takeaways:
– Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed ex-Heisman Trophy winner, Baker Mayfield, to a high-profile 3-year, $100 million contract after a single season.
– Mayfield ranked No.20 in Trevor Sikkema’s NFL starting quarterback evaluation, triggering mixed opinions on his real value.
– Kirk Cousins, the Atlanta Falcons starting quarterback ranked ahead of Mayfield at No. 15 in Sikkema’s list.
– Mayfield delivered career highs in several categories during the 2023 season, contributing to the Buccaneers’ third consecutive NFC South Division title.
– Some erratic performances raised questions around Mayfield’s consistency in delivering big plays.
Buccaneers’ Bold Move with Mayfield
This past offseason, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers turned a lot of heads with their bold investment in quarterback Baker Mayfield. The 2018 No.1 overall pick and former Heisman Trophy winner inked a 3-year, $100 million contract after only a season with the team. However, this hefty investment has faced some levels of skepticism.
Mixed Views On Mayfield’s Rank
Analysts like Trevor Sikkema of PFF have raised eyebrows at the Buccaneers’ commitment to Mayfield, placing him at No.20 among all 32 NFL starters for the upcoming 2024 season. According to Sikkema’s ratings, Mayfield rests in the fifth tier of quarterbacks, labeled “Can Singlehandedly Win and Lose Games.” Other NFC South starters ranked below Mayfield include Derek Carr of the New Orleans Saints and Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers. Predictably, this less-than-ideal arrangement sparked debates around Mayfield’s contribution to the team.
In contrast, the Atlanta Falcons’ starter, Kirk Cousins, received more recognition by landing at No.15 in Sikkema’s survey, further fueling the controversy surrounding Mayfield’s role.
Reflecting on Mayfield’s Performance
The 2023 season saw Mayfield in a one-year ‘prove-it’ deal that could’ve marked his end as an NFL starter. However, his performance managed not only to secure him a three-year extension but also to set personal records. Undeniably, Mayfield had his best season, hitting career highs in starts, completions, pass attempts, completion percentage, passing yards, and passing touchdowns. Notably, his last four games acted as a catalyst, propelling the Buccaneers into a solid storyline and a playoff berth.
The Tale of Two Halves
Taking a closer look at Mayfield’s performance reveals a tumultuous season with erratic play choices. As per PFF stats, he attempted numerous big plays in 2023, resulting in 25 significant throws and 22 turnover-worthy plays. However, despite his fluctuating performance, Mayfield ended up delivering in the critical final four games, earning top-10 passing grades and an elite Week 15 performance.
In fact, Mayfield’s shift in momentum later in the season became a talking point. He galvanized an electrifying finish, pushing the Buccaneers to clinch their third consecutive NFC South Division title. His spectacular performance in a 34-20 road victory over the Green Bay Packers became a turning point for both the player and the team.
From Discarded to Valued
Mayfield’s NFL journey is a testament to resilience. Cast aside by the Cleveland Browns, he had brief stints at the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams before being signed by the Buccaneers. Landing a one-year, $4 million contract in 2023 could have been the end of his career. Yet, Mayfield turned things around, leading the team into a promising season.
Amid proclamations of him being the Buccaneers’ future quarterback, Mayfield’s signing marked a significant offseason in which the team also sealed new deals with Mike Evans, Antonio Winfield Jr., and recruited Graham Barton in the NFL’s first draft round. As such, while skepticism murmurs about Mayfield’s place, enduring hope and potential remain robust.