Darlington: Mayfield seeks upward of $50 million a year from Buccaneers

His self-imposed camp deadline arrived Tuesday.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 281 min read

RT @ESPNNFL: .@JeffDarlington provides the latest on Baker Mayfield's contract negotiations with the Buccaneers 🏈 https: Via @JeffDarlington on X

What happened: Jeff Darlington said Baker Mayfield wants to be paid after several years on below-market contracts. Darlington expects the sides to reach an agreement eventually.

Why it matters: Mayfield enters the final year of his deal, leaving Tampa Bay with a long-term quarterback decision. Without an extension, free agency or the franchise tag could shape the 2027 negotiations.

By the numbers: Mayfield's three-year, $100 million contract averages $33.3 million and pays $40 million in 2026. A deal above $50 million annually would increase his average salary by at least 50%.

What to watch: Watch whether Tampa Bay reopens negotiations during camp despite Mayfield's cutoff.

Sources

@ESPNNFL 2026-07-28T11:14:26.017522+00:00

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