A recent report on Baker Mayfield’s successful tenure with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023 sheds light on the potential discount rate he might consider for his return to the team in 2024.

Despite being the first overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft and spending five years in the league, Mayfield had not lived up to the initial expectations. Despite sporadic success in Cleveland and a late-season surge with the Rams in 2022, it was somewhat expected that he secured only a $4 million prove-it deal with the Buccaneers for the past season.

Surprisingly, the one-time Heisman Trophy winner, Baker Mayfield, experienced a career resurgence with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023, surpassing expectations. Throughout the 18-week season, the 28-year-old quarterback achieved a top-10 ranking in the NFL for passing yards and touchdowns, throwing just 10 interceptions under the guidance of offensive coordinator Dave Canales.

Mayfield also played a pivotal role in leading the Buccaneers to a surprising Wild Card Round victory against the Philadelphia Eagles.

This remarkable season marked a crucial resurgence for Mayfield, offering the Buccaneers optimism for the post-Tom Brady era. However, by accepting the $4 million deal, Mayfield positioned himself for the opportunity to rebuild his reputation and potentially explore NFL free agency once again in March.

Baker Mayfield’s 2023-24 season stats include 4,044 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, 10 interceptions, and a 94.6 rating. This situation now places the organization in a challenging position, as they must navigate a significant pay increase for the quarterback in the same offseason when longtime team standout Mike Evans is also set to become a free agent.