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Mayfield and Buccaneers Stalled Over Long-Term Extension

Rising quarterback pay and Mayfield’s training-camp cutoff are forcing Tampa Bay to weigh a large raise against tight cap space and roster choices.

Overview

  • The two sides have not reached an agreement and talks remain technically inactive because Mayfield’s camp has not responded to an initial offer the Buccaneers sent in early June.
  • Mayfield has said extension talks are “not anywhere close” and set a firm personal rule that negotiations will stop once training camp begins.
  • Several agents interviewed by Sports Illustrated told reporters that Mayfield’s next deal should start at about $50 million per year with some arguing for $60 million, well above his current roughly $33 million average annual salary.
  • Mayfield is under contract for the 2026 season as the final year of a three‑year, roughly $100 million deal and would become an unrestricted free agent in 2027 if no extension is reached.
  • A large new contract would tighten Tampa Bay’s salary-cap flexibility after recent roster moves and could open the door for other teams to pursue Mayfield if talks break down.