Baker Mayfield’s Gratitude and Hopes for the Future with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

In the aftermath of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ playoff loss to the Detroit Lions, quarterback Baker Mayfield expressed his gratitude for the opportunity he was given and his desire to return to the team in 2024. Mayfield’s sentiments were echoed by wide receiver Mike Evans, who despite his initial disappointment at not receiving a new contract before the start of the season, also expressed his desire to remain with the Buccaneers.

Coach Todd Bowles’ Endorsement of Mayfield’s Return

Head coach Todd Bowles was effusive in his praise for Mayfield’s performance during the 2023 season, stating that he had “earned the right to return” in 2024. Bowles emphasized Mayfield’s leadership and the positive impact he had on the team, fostering a strong bond with his teammates.

General Manager Jason Licht’s Embrace of Mayfield

General manager Jason Licht’s lengthy hug with Mayfield outside the locker room after the playoff loss spoke volumes about the organization’s appreciation for the quarterback. Licht acknowledged that contract negotiations would take place in the offseason, but his embrace of Mayfield hinted at a mutual desire for a continued partnership.

Mayfield’s Desire for Continuity and Growth

Mayfield expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the Buccaneers organization and the opportunity they provided him to lead the team to an NFC South title in his first year as their starting quarterback. He emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity and bringing back key players, believing that a second year in the same system would allow the team to make significant strides.

Evans’ Legacy and Desire to Remain a Buccaneer

Mike Evans, the Buccaneers’ all-time leader in receiving yards, receiving touchdowns, receptions, and total touchdowns, reiterated his desire to remain with the franchise that drafted him in 2014. Evans expressed his love for the city of Tampa Bay and the Buccaneers organization, emphasizing the significance of potentially finishing his career with the team that gave him his start in the NFL.

Licht’s Commitment to Evans’ Future with the Buccaneers

Licht echoed Evans’ sentiments, stating that it would mean a great deal to the franchise, ownership, and everyone involved to make Evans a Buccaneer for life. Licht’s words underscored the organization’s recognition of Evans’ contributions and their desire to retain him as a cornerstone of the team.

Evans’ Agent’s Previous Deadline and Upcoming Negotiations

Evans’ agent, Deryk Gilmore, had previously set a September 9th deadline for a new contract extension to be reached before the start of the 2023-24 regular season. However, no offer was extended by the Buccaneers prior to the deadline, leading to disappointment for Evans. Nevertheless, Evans expressed optimism that talks would resume after the Super Bowl, indicating a willingness to find a mutually agreeable solution.

Godwin’s Hope for Evans’ and Mayfield’s Return

Wide receiver Chris Godwin, who has played alongside Evans since being drafted in 2017, expressed his strong desire for both Evans and Mayfield to return to the Buccaneers in 2024. Godwin emphasized the positive impact both players had on the team, both on and off the field, and acknowledged the importance of maintaining continuity within the roster.

Conclusion: A Shared Desire for a Continued Partnership

Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers organization have all expressed their mutual desire to continue their partnership beyond the 2023 season. Mayfield’s leadership and Evans’ star power, coupled with the organization’s appreciation for their contributions, suggest that a contract extension for Mayfield and a new deal for Evans are likely to be high priorities in the offseason. The Buccaneers will undoubtedly be eager to maintain the momentum they built in 2023 and make a deeper playoff run in 2024, and the return of Mayfield and Evans would be a significant step in that direction.