Baker Mayfield’s contract situation remains one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and one NFL analyst believes it won’t end with a new deal. In a list of 61 bold predictions for the 2026 NFL season and beyond, SB Nation’s Jarrett Bailey predicted that Mayfield and the Buccaneers will fail to reach a contract extension before or during the season.
And as it turns out, that prediction has already proved right.
He wrote, “Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield do not get extension done,” Bailey wrote.
According to Bailey’s projection, the lack of an agreement would allow Mayfield to play out the final year of his current contract before hitting free agency in 2027.
“This leaves Mayfield to play out the final year of his deal and become a free agent in 2027. Keep that in mind for later,” Bailey added.
The prediction comes as negotiations between Mayfield and Tampa Bay remain ongoing. Multiple reports throughout the offseason have indicated that the Buccaneers are in no rush to finalize an extension, though both sides have publicly expressed interest in getting a deal done. Mayfield has repeatedly stated he wants to remain in Tampa Bay, while the Buccaneers have consistently praised the veteran quarterback for helping stabilize the franchise since his arrival.
It’s important to note that Bailey’s projection is simply a prediction, not a report. There has been no indication that negotiations have broken down or that either side is preparing to move on after the 2026 season.
Still, if the two sides are unable to find common ground on a new contract, Mayfield’s entering free agency next offseason would immediately become one of the biggest storylines in the NFL.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Analyst predicts the Bucs could move on from Baker Mayfield in 2027
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
