Baker Mayfield 'Definitely' Earned New Bucs Contract amid NFL Rumors, Says HC Bowles

After the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' season came to an end in Sunday's NFC Divisional Round loss to the Detroit Lions, quarterback Baker Mayfield received a vote of confidence from head coach Todd Bowles regarding his chances of being re-signed.

"He most definitely has," Bowles said when asked if Mayfield has earned a new contract, per ESPN's Jenna Laine. "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."

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on Sunday that there is mutual interest between Mayfield and the Bucs for him to return in 2024, and he's seeking a "big-time quarterback deal."

Mayfield signed a one-year deal with Tampa Bay prior to the 2023 season. Playing for his fourth team in the last two years, the former No. 1 overall pick excelled as he led the Bucs to a 10-9 record and their third straight NFC South title. He threw for 349 yards in Sunday's loss to the Lions, the third-highest in franchise playoff history.

Laine noted that while there were no discussions about a new contract for Mayfield during the regular season, his representatives plan to meet with Tampa Bay to negotiate a deal this offseason.

"I love this group," Mayfield said. "I said that all year. And it's authentic. I mean that. It would mean a lot for me, to bring back a lot of key pieces, to get this back together, to get it to Year 2 in the system, you can make huge strides. I would love that. Obviously, who knows how it's going to play out, but I can't say enough about this organization and the opportunity they gave me this year. Just thankful, and I hope it works out."

In addition to Mayfield, the Bucs are also hoping to re-sign star wide receiver Mike Evans, who is set to become a free agent after failing to come to terms on an extension prior to Week 1. Laine added that Evans has expressed a desire to continue his legendary career in Tampa Bay.

It will be crucial for the Bucs to retain both Mayfield and Evans if they hope to make it back to the playoffs and make a deeper run next season.