Baker Mayfield Trade Rumors Heat Up — Former Bitter Rival Needs To ‘Make a Move’
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have still not agreed on a new contract, and that has started more talk about his future. With training camp less than three weeks away, both sides are running out of time to get a deal done.
According to NBC Sports, the Buccaneers remain in “no rush” to extend Mayfield. However, the quarterback has reportedly set a deadline to complete an agreement before training camp begins. That leaves just 19 days for the two sides to find common ground.
If they fail to reach a deal, the situation could become much more interesting. NBC Sports’ Mike Florio reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers “should be ready to make a move” if Mayfield eventually reaches free agency.
Steelers Could Emerge If Buccaneers Fail To Lock Up Mayfield
Mayfield enters the final year of his current contract after reviving his career in Tampa Bay. He bounced back after difficult stops with the Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Rams. His strong play helped reestablish him as one of the league’s reliable veteran quarterbacks.
The Buccaneers still have several ways to keep him. The easiest option remains a new contract before training camp. Still, the quarterback market continues to rise, which could make negotiations more difficult.
Mayfield currently earns an average of $33.33 million per season. He will make $40 million this year because of money carried over from last season. According to NBC Sports, Tampa Bay believes it can offer more than any other team. Even so, the rising market could push the price beyond what the franchise wants to pay.
The team also holds another option. Tampa Bay could use the franchise tag if the sides cannot agree on a long-term extension. The projected tag for quarterbacks in 2027 sits at at least $47.97 million. Mayfield will turn 32 during that season.
If Mayfield reaches free agency without a new deal or a franchise tag, Pittsburgh could become a serious landing spot. The Steelers expect to search for their next long-term quarterback after Aaron Rodgers retires.
Mayfield would give Pittsburgh an experienced starter. He finished the 2025 season among the NFL’s top 10 in both passing yards and passing touchdowns. If his contract talks with Tampa Bay fall apart, he could become one of the most sought-after quarterbacks on the market.
