Overview
- The Buccaneers announced Tuesday that they signed Mayfield to a three-year, $165 million deal that runs through the 2029 season and is the largest contract in franchise history.
- Reporting indicates the deal includes about $110 million in new guarantees and a team-friendly third year that is not fully guaranteed, giving Tampa Bay an option if Mayfield’s play or health declines.
- Mayfield said he set a training-camp deadline and was surprised talks resumed, with his camp and the team quietly reengaging the week before the season and agreeing to terms late Monday.
- The extension narrows Tampa Bay’s short-term cap flexibility — Over The Cap lists roughly $11.3 million in remaining space after recent deals — which will shape roster decisions this season.
- Team leaders praised Mayfield’s leadership and recent production as the reason to lock him in, but analysts warn the structure echoes past large quarterback extensions that created long-term risk when injuries or declines followed; Mayfield’s multi-year rebound from earlier career setbacks is the backdrop to the commitment.