Baker Mayfield Says Buccaneers Can Prove Doubters Wrong in 2026 NFL Season
Mayfield said Tampa Bay can shock critics as the quarterback enters a contract year and the Buccaneers try to rebound from a 2-7 stretch after their bye.
- On Tuesday, quarterback Baker Mayfield predicted the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will "shock a lot of people this year," expressing confidence despite widespread skepticism surrounding the team's 2026 outlook.
- Skepticism abounds for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following a 2-7 finish to the 2025 season, as pundits expect the team to struggle in the NFL's weakest division after offensive regression and key personnel departures.
- Mayfield feels "disrespected" by the organization and enters the final year of his contract without future guarantees, noting that team offers were "pretty far" from his $50 million-per-year goal.
- The Buccaneers face internal turmoil as defensive tackle Vita Vea conducts a hold-in, while offensive coordinator Zac Robinson represents the team's fourth play-caller in four years under Mayfield.
- Historically, Mayfield has thrived on adversity, disproving detractors from his time at Oklahoma through his NFL career, positioning him to fuel a bounce-back campaign amid current turmoil.
11 Articles
11 Articles
Baker Mayfield has a bold prediction for Buccaneers doubters
Baker Mayfield has no doubts about his team. Now, the Buccaneers quarterback is trying to at least warn the rest of the league and the non-believer pundits. Mayfield spoke to reporters Tuesday and said he believes Tampa Bay this season will "shock" some people.
Baker Mayfield backs Buccaneers to surprise critics in 2026
Baker Mayfield is entering the 2026 season with two sources of motivation working at once: outside skepticism about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and his unresolved contract situation. After Tampa Bay missed the playoffs last season, Baker has heard the predictions pointing toward another difficult year. His response has been direct. “I think we're gonna shock a lot of people this year,” Baker said Tuesday. Asked whether he was that confident, he ans…
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