Overview
- ESPN’s newly released top‑100 players list did not include Baker Mayfield, a result outlets called a notable snub given his recent production.
- Mayfield has halted extension talks with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and reportedly turned down a two‑year offer worth more than $100 million, leaving him to play the final year of his current deal.
- Since 2023 Mayfield has compiled large counting stats reported as 12,237 passing yards and 95 touchdown passes, figures commentators use to argue his omission is surprising.
- League evaluators told reporters they believe Mayfield is a top‑10 quarterback when healthy and pointed to lingering 2025 health issues as the main reason for his lower standing.
- Team moves and salary constraints, including the loss of Mike Evans in free agency, tighten Tampa Bay’s negotiation options and increase the importance of Mayfield’s 2026 performance for both his market and the team’s plans.