Baker Mayfield stated that he feels "disrespected" and "undervalued" by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following the conclusion of contract negotiations without a new long-term agreement. Mayfield had set a deadline at the start of training camp for discussions to conclude, a deadline that has now passed.
Mayfield expressed his disappointment, telling reporters, "It's disappointing in the regard to have, you know, to feel disrespected a little bit. And, um, that's really the disappointing part to feel undervalued after, you know, thinking you've earned it."
He added that he believes he is a "franchise quarterback" and has been told as much publicly by team ownership. The quarterback indicated that the Buccaneers did not offer anything beyond a two-year deal, while he was seeking a longer-term contract. Currently, Mayfield is set to earn up to $28 million in the final year of his existing three-year deal, which averages $33.3 million per season. He noted that there are 10 NFL quarterbacks currently earning between $51 million and $55 million annually.
Mayfield informed his teammates about the contract situation, emphasizing his focus on the upcoming season and winning. He also referenced historical negotiation practices by the Buccaneers with other players, including Mike Evans, Tristan Wirfs, and Vita Vea, who has reportedly requested a trade. Mayfield suggested that if he performs well this season, it will only strengthen his position for future negotiations.
"If you waited this long to take care of your franchise quarterback, that's too bad because it's only going to get worse from here," Mayfield stated, indicating his use of the situation as motivation. Despite expressing his desire to make Tampa Bay his long-term home, he referred to the city as "home for now" in the context of his current feelings regarding the contract.