Baker Mayfield and Buccaneers GM Jason Licht are all smiles after his contract extension

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering a crucial season, as quarterback Baker Mayfield enters the final year of his contract. However, their future may also be at stake under head coach Todd Bowles, following another playoff-less campaign. Management members, including general manager Jason Licht, could bear the brunt of any playoff absence.

Mayfield, though, shows no inclination to negotiate another contract extension before the regular season concludes on Sunday. Yet, there's optimism that a contract extension with the front office may still be possible. Mayfield is in the last season of his three-year, $100 million contract, signed with Tampa Bay in March 2024. His $39.97 million cap hit is significant, and the team likely wants to reduce it to create more salary cap room.

Sports Illustrated’s NFL insider Albert Breer suggests there’s still potential for a deal between the Buccaneers and Mayfield before the season opener. Breer points out that while negotiations have been minimal since the start of camp, they weren’t far apart earlier in the summer. The Buccaneers have demonstrated a willingness to finalize market deals closer to the season, as seen with extensions given to Vita Vea, Dexter Lawrence, and Tristan Wirfs.

Therefore, it remains to be seen if someone will pick up the phone and be open to altering their earlier stance to reach a new deal.