Overview
- The Buccaneers announced the three‑year, $165 million extension on Tuesday, locking Mayfield through the 2029 season and making it the largest contract in team history.
- Multiple reports show the deal uses staggered cash flows and guarantees, including roughly $70 million fully guaranteed at signing with additional guarantees that vest in 2027 and 2028 and a team‑friendly, non‑guaranteed third year.
- Mayfield set a training‑camp deadline, publicly said he felt “disrespected” when talks stalled, then reengaged with the team last week and signed just before the regular season began.
- The extension tightens Tampa Bay’s short‑term cap room after other moves such as the Vita Vea extension and removes Mayfield from the 2027 quarterback market that teams like the Steelers had been watching.
- Buccaneers leaders praised Mayfield’s leadership and community impact, he called the deal “life‑changing,” and both sides say the agreement lets the team and quarterback shift focus back to the 2026 season.