Baker Mayfield sets deadline for Tampa Bay Buccaneers contract talks

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has confirmed his contract extension talks have stalled, setting a late July deadline to secure a long-term deal.

The former first overall draft pick is currently entering the third season of a three-year contract extension signed in 2024.

Despite his desire to remain in Florida, the signal-caller admitted negotiations have not progressed to a satisfactory level.

“Obviously, yes, I would love to have a long-term deal done, but they know my deadline,” Mayfield stated.

Training camp deadline set

Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht previously suggested there was no strict timeline for an agreement.

However, the experienced quarterback and his representation have informed the franchise that discussions will cease once training camp opens.

“As soon as training camp starts, we’re not doing any contract stuff. It’s all ball,” he added.

The 29-year-old currently averages $33.3m per season, placing him 16th among all NFL quarterbacks in average annual value.

This financial figure positions the former Cleveland Browns starter just below fellow veteran Sam Darnold, despite recent impressive performances.

Evans departure ‘disappointing’

Away from his own future, the Texas native also addressed the high-profile exit of veteran wide receiver Mike Evans.

The franchise’s all-time leading scorer departed Tampa in free agency to join the San Francisco 49ers.

“There’s no way to sugar-coat it, it’s disappointing to not have him back,” the quarterback confessed.

Having spent 12 seasons with the Buccaneers, Evans was widely expected to finish his professional career with the NFC South organisation.

The high-profile departure now places added pressure on remaining offensive weapons like Chris Godwin to maintain the team’s competitive edge.