Overview
- General manager Jason Licht, speaking at the NFL owners meetings on Monday, said Mayfield remains the starter, reported “a lot of good conversations” with his representatives, and set no timetable for a deal.
- Mayfield is in the final year of a three-year, $100 million contract and is owed about $40 million in 2026 with $30 million already guaranteed, a setup teams often extend to smooth a looming cap hit.
- After reviving the franchise with a 2023 division title and a standout 2024 (about 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns), Mayfield’s late-2025 slide makes 2026 a pivotal season for his next price tag.
- Tampa Bay’s context is shifting with top receiver Mike Evans departing for the 49ers and leader Lavonte David leaving, while new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson arrives after Mayfield pushed for the hire.
- Licht also aims to extend edge rusher YaYa Diaby, signaling a broader effort to retain core contributors as the team balances contract costs and a changing roster.