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Baker Mayfield Says Buccaneers Will “Shock” in 2026

8/19/2026

41 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield said the team will shock many people in 2026.
In his final contract year, he says the two-year offer is far from the $50-million-per-year deal he wants.
The Buccaneers entered camp injury-free after a season that featured Mayfield’s shoulder injury in Week 12.
The Buccaneers saw Mike Evans sign with the San Francisco 49ers, Lavonte David retire, and Vita Vea request a trade.

History

Historical Context

After a 1992 jury ruled Plan B illegal, the NFL launched its modern free-agency system on March 1 1993, letting players with four accrued seasons sign anywhere. That change coincided with the Dallas Cowboys winning Super Bowl XXVIII, demonstrating teams’ new ability to sign high-profile talent. Today, quarterback contract negotiations and the Buccaneers’ roster churn echo the 1993 shift toward lucrative deals.

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Story summary

Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield said the team will shock many people in 2026.
In his final contract year, he says the two-year offer is far from the $50-million-per-year deal he wants.
The Buccaneers entered camp injury-free after a season that featured Mayfield’s shoulder injury in Week 12.
The Buccaneers saw Mike Evans sign with the San Francisco 49ers, Lavonte David retire, and Vita Vea request a trade.

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