Baker Mayfield is focused on leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2026, but until a long-term contract extension is signed, his future will continue to generate speculation around the NFL. In a recent article, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox identified five teams that could keep a close eye on Mayfield’s contract situation throughout the season if he and the Buccaneers fail to reach an agreement.
Those teams include the Minnesota Vikings, New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, Arizona Cardinals, and Carolina Panthers.
The reasoning is simple: franchise quarterbacks rarely become available. Mayfield has revitalized his career in Tampa Bay, emerging as one of the NFL’s more consistent veteran quarterbacks while leading the Buccaneers to multiple playoff appearances. If contract negotiations remain unresolved and he were somehow to reach free agency, he would immediately become one of the most sought-after players on the market.
Each team presents an interesting scenario.
The Vikings could find themselves searching for a proven veteran depending on how their quarterback situation develops with newly acquired Kyler Murray and JJ McCarthy. The Jets and Steelers have both faced uncertainty at the position in recent years and could look to an established starter if their current plans don’t produce results, especially with Aaron Rodgers confirming this will be his last season. The Cardinals were also mentioned as a team that traded away Kyler Murray and is now relying on journeyman Jacoby Brissett, while the Panthers would add an intriguing NFC South wrinkle if they ever explored the possibility of pursuing Tampa Bay’s quarterback as Bryce Young enters a crucial year.
The Buccaneers have made it clear they value Mayfield as their franchise quarterback, and there has been no indication they are looking to move on. General manager Jason Licht has assembled the roster around Mayfield, and Tampa Bay enters the season with expectations of competing for another NFC South title. Still, until an extension is finalized, speculation is inevitable.
Quarterback-needy teams across the league will continue monitoring the situation, hoping an opportunity presents itself. The Buccaneers remain confident Mayfield is their answer under center, but Bleacher Report’s latest projection is a reminder that if contract talks drag on, there won’t be any shortage of interested suitors waiting.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Analyst names teams that fit Baker Mayfield if he leaves the Bucs
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
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By Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
