Story perspectives

Buccaneers Sign Jake Browning as Mayfield's Backup Quarterback

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed quarterback Jake Browning to a one-year deal to back up Baker Mayfield.
Browning, 29, was previously the backup for the Cincinnati Bengals for three seasons, notably throwing for 1,936 yards, 12 touchdowns, and seven interceptions in 2023.
His performance declined in 2025, prompting the Bengals to acquire Joe Flacco.
Browning's contract with Tampa Bay represents a new chapter after entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2019.

History

Historical Context

The NFL has increasingly embraced undrafted free agents, with 21 players making notable impacts in 2019. Jake Browning, who entered the league undrafted, exemplifies this trend, throwing for 1,936 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023. His signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers reflects a shift in quarterback dynamics, emphasizing the value of developing talent from non-traditional pathways in professional football.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed quarterback Jake Browning to a one-year deal to back up Baker Mayfield.
Browning, 29, was previously the backup for the Cincinnati Bengals for three seasons, notably throwing for 1,936 yards, 12 touchdowns, and seven interceptions in 2023.
His performance declined in 2025, prompting the Bengals to acquire Joe Flacco.
Browning's contract with Tampa Bay represents a new chapter after entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2019.

1 / 2