What happened: Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are currently locked in a contract stalemate as the quarterback enters the final year of his deal. After missing the 2025 postseason with an 8-9 record, Mayfield is reportedly seeking a new agreement in the $60 million per year range before training camp begins.

Why it matters: While Mayfield's leadership is unquestioned, his 2025 stats of 3,693 yards and 26 touchdowns represent a significant step back from his Committing elite money to a quarterback who has struggled with injuries and inconsistent accuracy is a risk that could hamper the roster depth for the rest of the decade.