2 NFC Juggernauts Emerge As Potential Landing Spots For Baker Mayfield

This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.

After reviving his career in Tampa Bay, Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers could go their separate ways soon. Mayfield had the best season of his NFL career in 2023, leading the Bucs to the divisional round, but never returning to that stage.

He starred in a special comeback story after his tenure with the Cleveland Browns didn’t go as expected, and he jumped around teams until the Buccaneers offered him the chance to replace Tom Brady. Mayfield hasn’t taken the team back to the Super Bowl, but he still carries high expectations.

However, he is due for a new deal since his current one expires in March of 2027. That could open the door for a move away from Florida.

Baker Mayfield Linked With 2 NFC Teams Next Year

Jeff Howe of The Athletic speculated about the possibility of seeing Mayfield leave the Buccaneers next year. In that scenario, the veteran could join two strong teams in the NFC: The Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Rams.

“Mayfield has a chance to be the first QB to exceed $50 million in free agency,” Howe wrote. “Considering the likely competition for his services, it’s not farfetched to believe he could corral the biggest contract in NFL history.

“And if quarterback Matthew Stafford retires after the 2026 season, the Los Angeles Rams and Mayfield might feel compelled to reunite. The Minnesota Vikings would be another obvious fit, but there would be a handful of teams ready to pursue the 2017 Heisman Trophy winner.”

Mayfield’s level decreased a little in 2025, going 343 of 543 for 3,693 yards and 26 touchdowns. The Buccaneers will miss long-time captain Lavonte David next season, and they could lose Mayfield at the end of the 2026 campaign.