What's next for Baker Mayfield? Ex-OU football QB 'would love' to re-sign with Buccaneers
Baker Mayfield revitalized his NFL career this season.
After playing for four teams in the past three seasons, the former OU quarterback shined with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He led them to the divisional round of the playoffs, where they suffered a 31-23 loss to the Detroit Lions on Sunday.
Mayfield is now a free agent, and the 28-year-old quarterback seems to have raised his personal stock significantly.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Sunday that Mayfield and Tampa Bay have mutual interest in negotiating a new deal. Mayfield originally signed a one-year, $4 million contract with the team in March.
"My understanding is the Bucs want Baker Mayfield back next year," Rapoport said. "He wants to be back as well and potentially cash in on a real, big-time quarterback deal. They also have the franchise tag as an option as well, but hopefully they will work that out."
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Baker Mayfield's stats for 2023 season
Mayfield recorded career highs of 4,044 passing yards, 29 total touchdowns and a completion percentage of 64.3% this season.
When asked after Tampa Bay's loss on Sunday if Mayfield has earned a new contract with the team, head coach Todd Bowles made his stance clear.
"He most definitely has," Bowles said. "Obviously, it's too early to talk about that, and business is business. But Baker had a hell of a year. We love him. The guys love him. And we'll see what the future holds."
Mayfield is sure to have more options than this time last year. But he seems to have found a home in Tampa Bay.
"I would love (to re-sign)," Mayfield said on Sunday. "Obviously, who knows how it's going to play out. But I can't say enough about this organization for the opportunity they gave me this year. I'm just thankful. I'm hoping it works out."
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This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Baker Mayfield 'would love' to re-sign with Tampa Bay Buccaneers