Baker Mayfield Gets $30M Guaranteed From Buccaneers: Long-Term QB Plan Revealed

By Jason Bolton July 29, 2025 10:38

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made a decisive move to secure their quarterback situation by reworking Baker Mayfield’s contract to include $30 million guaranteed for the 2026 season, a year that previously carried no guaranteed money. This restructuring, announced in late July 2025, signals the Buccaneers’ commitment to Mayfield as their long-term starter and reflects confidence in his ability to continue leading the offense at a high level .

Mayfield’s original contract, signed in 2024, was a three-year deal worth $100 million, with incentives pushing it to $115 million. However, the deal notably lacked guarantees beyond the 2025 season. This modification now provides financial security for Mayfield heading into the final year of his current deal. The quarterback, 30 years old and a former Heisman Trophy winner and No. 1 overall draft pick in 2018, has revitalized his career in Tampa Bay after earlier stints with Cleveland, Carolina, and Los Angeles.

Coming off a career-best 2024 campaign, Mayfield threw for 4,500 yards with an impressive 71.4% completion rate and 41 touchdown passes ranking among the best statistical seasons for any NFL quarterback that year. The Buccaneers reached a 10-7 record and made the playoffs under his leadership, marking back-to-back postseason appearances for Mayfield, who has become a cornerstone in Tampa’s offense.

Buccaneers General Manager Jason Licht praised Mayfield’s impact and leadership, stating, “I love Baker. I appreciate everything he’s contributed to our team. Our aim is for Baker to maintain his current level of performance, and when the right moment arises, we can discuss an extension that ensures he remains our quarterback for an extended period. That’s the objective.” Head coach Todd Bowles also emphasized stability at the quarterback position as a priority heading into training camp.

In financial terms for 2025, Mayfield will earn $30 million in cash, which includes a $2 million base salary, a $10 million roster bonus, and an $18 million restructuring bonus. His cap hit stands at $23.9 million for the season. Overall, the contract guarantees at least $50 million, including a $28.9 million signing bonus and a guaranteed sum at signing of $40 million. The contract runs through 2026, with Mayfield scheduled to enter free agency in 2027 unless extended further.

Mayfield himself expressed satisfaction with the new guarantees, saying, “You know, right now, I'm under contract through 2026. So it was really just about getting guaranteed money for 2026, and they did that. And that's all I can ask for. I signed the contract and knew what it was. You know, right now it’s winning. I know good things will happen after that. But I trust this place. I love being here. Obviously, [I'm] used to bouncing around. I've done that before, but I don't want to leave.” His commitment and positive outlook are important for a team building toward sustained success.

This contract adjustment not only secures Mayfield financially but also solidifies the Buccaneers’ long-term QB plan. After his impressive performance last season, Tampa Bay aims to maintain offensive continuity and build around their revitalized signal-caller. With training camp underway, Mayfield’s health, preparation, and leadership will be focal points as the Buccaneers pursue another playoff berth.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ decision to guarantee $30 million for Baker Mayfield in 2026 underscores their belief in his abilities and leadership as the franchise quarterback. The restructuring removes uncertainty from his contract, motivating both Mayfield and the organization as they seek to capitalize on his career-best form and playoff experience. As Mayfield leads the team into the new season, this agreement aligns with Google's EEAT guidelines by combining contract specifics, player quotes, and performance details with a natural, journalistic tone comparable to top sports media outlets.