The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been up and down this season, but even though they’ve flown under the radar for the most part, one thing has been clear: Baker Mayfield is having fun.
The former No. 1 pick has effectively brought his career back from the ground in Tampa Bay, even being an early-season MVP candidate.
When asked about this resurgence, Mayfield told Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated that Todd Bowles and the Bucs simply gave him the freedom to play his game instead of turning him into something he’s not (via The MMQB):
“It’s exactly how it is,” Mayfield said. “It’s a big reason why I chose to come to Tampa [Bay]. They told me to be the best version of myself. That’s football—having fun playing football. A couple other stops, they tried to morph me into someone I’m not, got a little too involved instead of letting me be a great leader. This place has empowered me to be the best version of myself. You see it on tape. It pops out at you. People notice it.”
Mayfield led the Cleveland Browns to the playoffs and overcame multiple offensive coordinators and offensive changes, yet he was still sent out the door by the organization.
Granted, he left some to be desired on and off the field during his days in Berea.
Then, he lost his starting job and was even waived by the Carolina Panthers, and it took a late-season injury by Matthew Stafford for him to get another chance to showcase his skills.
Mayfield showed glimpses of great play with the Los Angeles Rams, and it was enough for the Bucs to believe in him.
Now, it seems like he’s earned himself a long-term pact to stay with the NFC South organization for the next couple of years.
And while he may never be able to live up to the hype and responsibility that come with being the No. 1 pick, he could still have a long and successful career in the National Football League.