“No Sh*t The Franchise Tag Is An Option”
January 22nd, 2024
Tampa Bay doesn’t have to worry about losing Baker Mayfield because he can be slapped with the franchise tag, a one-year deal for 2024.
One insider says Mayfield would be damn glad to get it.
Bucs fans are going to hear about this for another month or so. The franchise tag window opens in late February. It allows teams to designate one pending free agent to play on a predetermined one-year salary. The locked in rate is the average of the top five base salaries at the position.
In Mayfield’s case, that would be about $35 million for 2024.
Quarterback, of course, is the most important position on the team. And it’s even more important when your QB is a seasoned veteran like Mayfield coming off a strong year.
NBC Sports and ProFootballTalk.com icon Mike Florio scoffed today at a report that the franchise tag is an option for Mayfield and the Bucs.
“Well, no sh** it’s an option. Of course it’s an option,” Florio said on Pro Football Talk.
“I mean, yeah, if you don’t work out a long-term deal with him, what are you going to do? ‘Go head and be a free agent and sign with somebody else.’ You use the franchise tag, and he’s not going to complain. He’s going to make $35 million as opposed to the $4 million [plus incentives] that he earned last year. So hell yeah, the franchise tag’s an option. Whatever it is, it would better if they work out a long term deal and stick with him, and where this goes.”
Co-host Chris Simms, the former Bucs starting quarterback, agreed with Florio.
“The Buccaneers are close,” Simms said. “You got a guy. Be happy with it. Baker Mayfield is a big-time starting quarterback in the NFL. He’s never going to be top-5 or anything like that. But can he be anywhere from No. 6 to No. 15 in a given year? Yeah, he can. His arm is big-time. He makes game-changing throws. We saw that.”
Simms was on the field yesterday in Detroit and noted “incredible throws” by Mayfield. Obviously, they were in high-pressure moments.
Joe’s not worried about the Bucs losing Mayfield and Mike Evans. Retaining other free agents like Lavonte David and especially Antoine Winfield Jr. concern Joe.
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:27 pm
I think Lavonte David will retire
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:28 pm
Joe, what does the Bucs 2024 salary cap mess look like? Can they resign everyone (Mayfield, Evans, Winfield, David)?
Not spelling that out here today. They are limited but they can also get creative with flexibility, especially if they’re willing to dish out significantly long-term deals. –Joe
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:33 pm
I wonder what Lavonte’s real take on this whole thing with Devin White is?
Joe, why don’t you ask him?
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:35 pm
Evans and Lavonte need to retire as Bucs.
I’m fine rolling with Mayfield, though I might have some concerns if Canales bolts, as they seem to be a good pairing.
I love Winfield and think he’s a huge priority- but does he actually deserve to be the highest paid safety in the league? If we’re being honest, he’s blown more than a few pass coverages this year. Didn’t have a great game yesterday either. Blew his coverage on that deep pass against Philly last week. Has been out of position many times this season when they play cover-3… I’m just saying. Dude has a knack for the ball and making splash plays, but I don’t think other teams fear him they did someone like Ed Reed… still love the kid and want him back.
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:35 pm
I was never a Baker Boi, but he has proven me wrong. No doubt the Bucs need to sign him to a long-term contract. With the right support, Baker can help the Bucs be a perennial playoff team. As far as free agents go, we need to make Winfield a priority. The guy is a tone setter, and he is young. Devin White needs to go, and Lavonte David should be a lower priority simply because of his age. If we can keep him, great! But there are other bigger priorities.
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:35 pm
Yeah. Mayfield is pretty decent. Definitely a good bridge until we can get an uber talented QB in the draft or free agency.
Might not ever win anything big, but with a crazy good supporting cast, who knows?
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:41 pm
Agreed, Baker definitely will be back and most likely Evans. AWin is the big concern as he is going to command a huge payday. I think they can work with David and he will be back if he want to continue to play.
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:42 pm
Why would they sign him for $40m a year with two years guaranteed, when they could franchise him? For some reason the $50+ million that top-5 QBs get doesnt all count toward the franchise number. So why wouldn’t they franchise him this year for $35m, next year for $40-ish, and then if he’s still top ten-ish, pay him the going rate then? You have almost no risk from Baker crashing back to earth next year, because the money won’t be guaranteed for 2025, and by the time you need to make a long term decision, you’ll have three years of performance to judge by. It’s cheaper in the short term, and safer, and unlikely to be significantly more expensive in the long term.
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:43 pm
100% agree with Chris Simms. Mayfield is never gonna be a Mahomes, Brady or Jackson but he’s in at least the top15. I think Mayfield just want a solid home. Don’t think he will want to break the bank. I hope they can sign him Evans and Winfield even if we have to let guys like Shaq B go.
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:44 pm
MARKET VALUE
Evans – 3 years @ $26M/year
Winfield – 5 years @ $18M/year
Baker – 3 years @ $30M/year
60% signing bonuses and that’s $29.6M against a $49.6M cap.
Assuming no other moves, that leaves $17M for FA (after draft).
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:45 pm
I know 1 thing, we bet not lose Winfield Jr this off season. This dude was 1st team all pro
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:45 pm
Glad I’m not the only one to say that the Bucs are close.
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:53 pm
Bucs are close, Baker can win, Resign key starters and reload the roster, draft studs. Go Bucs
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:55 pm
With the exception of Tom Brady, the Bucs have NEVER had a franchise QB. Hard to fathom in almost 50 years of football. Culverhouse stupidly let Doug William go to the USFL (over 200K), traded away Steve Young. Unless I am mistaken, a QB this franchise has drafted as never gotten a 2nd contract. Baker is the 40th QB that has started for this franchise. And Unless Jason Licht has some brilliant plan to upgrade this position, they need to either re-sign Baker or at the very least franchise tag and make Baker prove it again next season before getting a long term deal. Bucs are sitting on 47M in cap space for 2024. Spend it wisely and hopefully JL moves some overrated members of this roster to free up even more $$$ for the likes of Big Mike, Winfield, David, etc.
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:57 pm
I don’t care if player X retires as a Buc. I don’t.
I’m a Bucs fan. Players will always cycle out. It is a business.
Having a QB you can compete with is way more important than an aging WR.
SMDH
January 22nd, 2024 at 1:58 pm
Mayfields are a dime a dozen. You put Fields, Murray, Garapolo, Brissett, Wentz, Heinike, Browning, Flacco, Minchew etc, they all win the same amount if not more games. Cousins definitely. You give this guy Carr or Watson money, you get Carr & Watson. There is a reason he gets bounced around.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:01 pm
I dont get it. If you are not sure to the point of paying him the amount of money other teams are offering then let him go so he can cash in. I dont think thats fair to him. Now you would say 35 million is a lot of money well 40+ million is even more than that so why not take it.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:01 pm
Mike Florio was a Parrot in another life………
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:02 pm
i said it since day One that the Bucs were lucky that Baker fell into their lap. Well. here we are wondering how we are going to keep the band together. Get rid of some overpriced players like D. White, C Davis, Shaq somehow and rework some core guys deals and we will be just fine. Pass Rush. Pass Rush. Pass Rush is what we need.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:07 pm
Bowles made Winfield a 1st team all-pro. He won’t leave… unless he wants to go to be a Viking like his dad.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:09 pm
SHaq and Godwin are untradeable because JL kicked the can down the road on them. Cut or trade accelerates ALL their voided years to this year.
Licht does some things well and he put the team in this pickle.
Like the Lightning, sometimes you have to let good players go.
Mike Evans is the obvious one out of Winfield/Baker/Evans
You want feel good stories…go watch hallmark.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:25 pm
I just can’t see the Bucs keeping Barrett or Godwin unless its cheaper to keep them then trade or cut. I can’t see letting Mike Evans go. He is the only receiver the Bucs have that puts some fear in defensive coordinators. Before he was cheap shot by the Saints Godwin was a star. Now he is just a good complimentary receiver with good hands but doesn’t get the seperation he used to. There are so many good younger receivers in the NFL that would take half the money Godwin makes if the Bucs could fit them in. Definitely draft a good one. They need someone else to take some of the pressure off of Evans.
At this point they need Mayfield and Mayfield needs Evans. Mayfield also needs a second more athletic tight end. Otton has overachieved. He is a good receiver but not physical enough and sometimes he loses concentration and ball goes through his hands.
Running back is the other position Mayfield needs.
Didn’t mention OL because that’s number one hole in the offense.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:28 pm
Sounds good to me.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:32 pm
@Optimisticbucsfan- We’ll know which way things are headed by February 19th with both Mike and Baker.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:33 pm
Order of priorities:
1) Winfield Jr.
2) B. Mayfield
3) M. Evans
4) L. David
Al are ”musts”
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:34 pm
Why are some of you saying Tom Brady was a Franchise QB for the Bucs. Franchise QB’s just don’t play3 years for a team and are mediocre a third year. Just cause you win a Super Bowl doesn’t make you a Franchise QB a widely overused term.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:42 pm
@ ED – Sportrac can explain it way better than myself but getting rid of Godwin or Shaq after 6/1 does gain us some money next yr but would put $36 mill in dead cap in 2025. We need to stop kicking the can down the road.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:42 pm
Ed Says:
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:25 pm
I just can’t see the Bucs keeping Barrett or Godwin unless it’s cheaper to keep them then trade or cut.
It’s better to keep them.
Godwin next year: 27 million cap hit or 26 million dead cap. He is certainly worth a million to be on Bucs.
Barret next year: 14 million cap hit or 26 million dead cap if they get rid of him.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:45 pm
You people saying keep Mayfield over Evans are legitimately sick. LOL
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:47 pm
I don’t see the big deal with losing Winfield. It’s not like he’s a Pro Bowler or anything
jk
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:47 pm
Obvious cuts:
Russell Gage that’s it. Save 11.2 million by cutting him.
Possible cuts:
Carlton Davis. Counts 20 million against cap this year. However, only 14 million against dead cap. Savings of 6 million.
Anthony Nelson. Bucs save 1.8 million if the cut him.
I actually think both will survive.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:48 pm
We should of won this game. I do not know how we managed to lose.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:48 pm
I don’t like the franchise tag idea because it doesn’t allow the Bucs to defer a portion of Baker’s salary into void years.
If the Bucs want to keep all of the higher valued free agents they really need to sign them to longer term deals (3-5 seasons).
The Bucs should also extend T. Wirfs’ deal instead of paying him $18.2M on his 5th year option deal.
It will be interesting to see what the Bucs do with –
– Jenson
– Gage
– Barrett
– C. Davis
All or a few might be cut for cap relief as well…
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:51 pm
LVD should retire.
BM should take a 3-4 year 50 mill deal. he’s gonna need his last 2 yrs when TB finally gets fired.
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:52 pm
@ geno
I believe Barrett will be cut over A. Nelson.
I think Nelson has done enough to prove he is a solid rotational player and he isn’t that expensive at @ $5.38M.
Plus – Nelson is one of our GM’s draft picks and you know he loves to hang on to those guys if he is able…
January 22nd, 2024 at 2:59 pm
I am still not convinced Baker is the long term QB needed. He did play at his best this season, but I still have to question why he hasn’t played to that level every year.
It would be better to structure a three year deal that doesn’t give as big of a hit on the salary cap. That is, if Baker will allow a trade clause and buyout to be built in.
I have a feeling that Trask is going to light up the preseason and create a controversy. Trask has progressed every year and will be better next season. He seems good at soaking up stuff, and there was a lot to soak up this season.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:08 pm
Serious question to the non-Baker Bois.
With the ball in his hands, 2 minutes left, game on the line, who had faith that Baker was going to get it done?
To be fair, the odds are against any QB in that situation, but who really, honestly, believed Baker was the guy you wanted in that situation?
Personally, I just hope that INT isn’t used as the excuse for a backwards plunge next year. If anyone has an ounce of honesty and they’re more than fanbois, they know the history of QBs who are terrible then out of the blue have a career year. They nearly, all the time, come back to reality the following year. That’s why something like the franchise tag isn’t a terrible option, other than trying to figure out how to fit it under the cap.
Baker certainly earned his right to return, but the Bucs can’t be retarded about it and think that Baker went from a huge bust to a guy you bet your franchise on beyond a year.
At the same time Baker over performed this year, and if he could just become more consistent, he could be a mid-tier NFL starter, and there’s nothing wrong with that, so long as you’re not paying him like a top-tier QB. But if you want a deal you can get out of after a year, you’re going to have to overpay for that.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:14 pm
Craig you don’t know why baker hasn’t played this good every year? He was good his rookie year, he was good the year they beat Pittsburgh in the playoffs, he was good this year, are you telling me 6 different head coaches and 5 different offensive coordinators don’t make a difference? This ain’t hard, baker said he would sacrifice if it meant bringing everyone back, you draft either oline help, pass rush help or db help. Use any money leftover for free agency, maybe go after a speed back for when white ain’t running, maybe a center also. Keep the pieces here and give them something baker has never had, same coaches and players for a 2nd year in a row.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:15 pm
I don’t want Baker or Bowles back. But they both will return as we begin our trek toward mediocrity.
The duo is not bad enough to let go, in fact they’re both above average, but they will never win the big game. Consequently, we’re in for a few years of 500 football.
The defense was coached horribly yesterday. It was akin Bowles telling them at halftime, “Time and time again, Detroit’s receivers and backs are wide open in the middle of the field. Keep doing what you’re doing and let’s hope Goff throws it ten yards off target and we get an interception.”
Does Baker’s talent level remind you of any of the four remaining quarterbacks playing for the Super Bowl? I think not.
We finished the season 10-9. And I realize most here are satisfied with that result.
I want better!
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:22 pm
Ja, I would say Josh Allen ain’t god awful better than Mayfield, if you take away Lamar Jackson’s rushing and ability to buy time he ain’t no better than mayfield, you put mayfield in for Brock Purdy, he probably has just as good of a season as him especially when cm is your running back. There is a lot that can be built upon on this season, baker said he’s willing to sacrifice if everyone can come back, a second year in a row with the same offense could really do wonders, defense can still get better, draft some db help, some pass rush help or some o-line help. This team can improve next year
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:25 pm
A bargain 4 million dollar QB with a first time OC that fielded the worst running game in the NFL, with 80 million in dead money after a recent Super Bowl run and still got 10 wins, a division championship and a playoff win. That’s overachieving if I ever saw it.
Bucs should lose no less than 5 games next year if they retain Baker, Evans, Winfield draft beastly IOL, TE, and retool the pass rush in FA.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:29 pm
Marine Buc.
I think Anthony Nelson stays. As I said.
The thing with Barrett is I think it is hard for them to cut him early. Before June 1st. Otherwise, they take a 26 million dollar dead cap hit if they cut him before June 1st. It may be possible after June 1st. That is less clear to me.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:37 pm
After hearing Lavonte Davids press conference yesterday I also think he might retire. That’s a huge whole to fill especially since the Diva white experiment failed miserably.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:42 pm
Detroit had a vastly superior OLine and Dline than Bucs and though the Bucs played hard, and missed out on some specific plays, the trenches disparity was the main reason they lost the game. Goff wasn’t anywhere near as pressured as Mayfield was and Lions running game dominated in 4th quarter.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:42 pm
Rod: hiesman winner…. Reality. AFC playoff winner….reality
NFC playoff winner”…… reality. This is bakers reality… not the turbulent year last year, or pthe season he played through injury. To answer your question, he has come back to his reality. Now, wouldn’t it be nice to, for the first time in his career, start with an oc in consecutive years?
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:49 pm
@ let em
he’s on the couch now…..thats what matters. He had a chance and threw a pick.
Brady would have won that game…..then again he would not have been throwing ME’s way early in the game 🙂
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:53 pm
@ geno
I agree on Barrett and the Jenson cut will also probably have to wait until after June 1st.
“Jensen won’t be released (or more likely retire) until after June 1. The Bucs will have to carry his $5.977 million cap hit all the way until that date. Once they complete the transaction, they will be able to save $1.21 million on the 2024 salary cap while pushing an $11.8 million dead cap hit into 2025.”
C. Davis is an interesting situation. He is injury prone but still a very talented cover guy in most situations. Cutting him will save the Bucs $14M base salary but then it creates another hole in the roster to fill.
However – It’s possible the development of McCollum and Izien might allow the Bucs to part ways with CD.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:53 pm
Just pay the man already. Draft a QB, cut the statue loose and let’s get on with it already. Please let Bowles go to. Thank him for coming and let’s get a real head coach. Bye bye Devin White too. I know Buffalo lost last night, but boy those 6 o linemen protections worked like a charm. The Bucs aren’t smart enough to do that when Baker is getting hammered. Baker can run every bit as good as Josh Allen. Dan Campbell is a player’s coach, love the guy. We need innovative coaching and Todd Bowles, bless his heart, isn’t that. And pay Mike Evans. Our Team can be a contender with a good draft, but leadership is everything. This team overachieved this year with Bowles holding them back.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:55 pm
Why give him a $35 million franchise tag when his comparable is Geno Smith who got 25 per year last year? I think we ought to be able to get Baker for < 30 per year. I'm not in the camp of people who accepts that every starting QB contract needs to go 30 plus. Most of those contracts have proven to be mistakes. There's maybe 5 QBs who are really worth the gigantic contracts. QB economics needs to be fixed. This is getting to be a joke. I love Baker, but I cringe at the thought of giving him more than 30. Hopefully, he takes the team friendly approach so they can sign Evans and our other free agents and not cripple the cap… I believe he will. He's a competitor who wants to win. You don't win paying your QB 20+ percent of the cap unless the QB is named Mahomes.
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:57 pm
@ geno RE: Shaq
Post 6/1 cut
2024 Dead Cap: $9,267,000
2025 Dead Cap: $17,401,000
2024 Cap Savings: $4,923,872
January 22nd, 2024 at 3:58 pm
Yup, db anticipated that throw to Otton and jumped the route. Made a good play. Baker obviously would like that one back. Even so, despite that throw, baker played great , given our line kept collapsing, and Hutchinson devoured him, unblocked a few times. Evans had a monster game, too, minus a few drops. When dean went out hurt, our defense couldn’t keep up. That throw away ( that could’ve been challenged) is a play that only physically strong QBs make..it gave us another down, then Rashad’s td( brilliant call by Canales) please let’s run it back next year with this core.
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:00 pm
If Mayfield has to stay, tag him, and see what he does when he’s got 35m in his pocket. You’re only tied to him for one year if he tanks.
After his family swindled him he was desperate this year. See what he does when he’s flush.
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:01 pm
@ Rod
“he could be a mid-tier NFL starter, and there’s nothing wrong with that, so long as you’re not paying him like a top-tier QB.”
I believe Baker is already a “mid-tier” NFL QB. I would like to see a fair compensation 3 year deal for BM that will allow the Bucs to part ways after year two if things don’t go well…
Over-paying Baker with a huge guaranteed money deal would be a mistake IMO.
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:04 pm
Rob munch. To be honest other than the Baker Mayfield fan boys we know the answer to that question. It was answered yesterday day in Detroit he had a chance to tie the game with a minute and 48 seconds left and he threw a pick. This is why I say draft a quarterback even if they do resnig Baker Mayfield.I still believe that Baker Mayfield is average at best and we ain’t winning a superbowl with Baker . What we saw last year is the best Baker Mayfield you will get and that’s not good enough to win a superbowl. That’s not hate that’s just the truth !!
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:10 pm
Yep, qb this weekend with a chance to win the game throws a bad interception. Time to move on.
So who should the Packers get for qb next year?
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:11 pm
End of the Year Fan Analysis:
DAVID: Definitely a Bedwetter. Troll-like. Worshipped the Cult of Kyle until his lies brought about its downfall like Sodom & Gomorrah. Wish he looked as good as Baker Mayfield.
NE FAN: Fans like her are “a dime a dozen.” Tom Brady hated her.
CAPT’N MUNCH: Beyond Salvageable. Competent liar who probably drools. At the end of the season, I almost felt sorry for him after Tony Marks spanked him time after time over the season.
ALTBuc: A David wannabe. Lacks talent. Fifth-Tier contributor at best.
LOL…
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:22 pm
A good coach can make Baker a great QB. He has the goods and has heart in spades. Dude is relentless!!! You have to cater to his strengths. Dropped passes killed the Bucs this year. Just sayin
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:24 pm
We blundered in 4th qtr and should of won.
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:25 pm
Why anyone care what ‘David’ say?
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:26 pm
Brady would of won that game.
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:27 pm
Chad—
“JA I would say Josh Allen ain’t god awful better than Mayfield, if you take away Lamar Jackson’s rushing and ability to buy time he ain’t no better than mayfield, you put mayfield in for Brock Purdy, he probably has just as good of a season as him especially when cm is your running back”
Disagree about Allen. Who alive, besides you, would take Mayfield over Allen?
Lamar Jackson’s running ability ain’t no better than Mayfield?
I think you might want get a second opinion on that one. Oh, that’s right, a second on that statement does not exist.
I ain’t agreeing. That’s for sure.
Purdy? The jury is still out …
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:27 pm
Wyoming Joe is not a Bucs fan
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:34 pm
Rod Munch: He already did the 2-minute thing twice this year. He put a ball in the middle of 3- Bucs in the endzone of the Bills game, our guys were mugged, no call. Against Texas, he got a TD with Otton with 46 seconds left. Bucs defense let CJ score the other way, You always appear to say a lot but your words leave many holes where facts once lived
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:11 pm
I would take baker over josh Allen, what has Josh Allen won? And I said if you take away Lamar’s ability to run and and extend plays then he is no better than baker, baker has better accuracy and a better arm that Jackson, and sounds like you somewhat agree with me about Purdy. And also throw golf in there as well, baker is better than Jarrod, I’m just saying give baker cm at running back, give him a better offensive line at least center and interior o-linemen, and I can guarantee that baker is just as good. Unlike all these other qbs baker hasn’t been in the same system for more than a year ever in his whole career, that has to matter also
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:12 pm
If you franchise him you best draft another QB, because if he has another good year he will be gone. For some reason players hate the franchise tag, I guess it is because the stability of getting paid over multiple years.
Also, would that number go up based upon teams restructuring contracts for 2024 or is it a 2023 Top Salaries?
Heck in my opinion I wish teams have 11 franchise tags they could use.
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:32 pm
Rod Muncher… Baker did not over perform he progressed nicely. After setting a rookie record for TD.s finally broken by Herbert he made steady progress until year 3 his.previous best. Year 4 he should have gotten surgery after the game 4 injury. Games 1-4 he was like this year. Year five he was stabbed in the back by the Browns who are paying for their misdeed with 50 m cap hit for a guy who has barely played in 2 years. Take out the injuries and the Browns dysfunction this year is just a nice career progression. With the same coach, OC, and Mike back he will get even better. Keep in mind QB,s play longer now. Evans and Bakes are two Texas peas in a pod. They will work together to stay together for 4 years.
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:32 pm
If you franchise Baker and he has a similar season – he’ll get $40-45 mill per year
How’s Trask working out for us?
Baker has zero reason to take a deal less than 3 yrs guaranteed(and that would be generous). Starting @ $35+
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:33 pm
Marine Buc Says:
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:01 pm
@ Rod
“he could be a mid-tier NFL starter, and there’s nothing wrong with that, so long as you’re not paying him like a top-tier QB.”
I believe Baker is already a “mid-tier” NFL QB.
———–
Well, I meant if he doesn’t fall off he’ll be mid-tier – it was poor phrasing on my behalf, and again, you can absolutely win with that if you can consistently get that level of play, and that’s the one area where I hope Baker can improve.
For the contract, however, there’s no way I’d do a multiple year deal, unless you can get out from under it after a year. Again, the bust rate of guys who have a career year is extremely high – but, it’s not 100% either. Geno Smith, for example, is probably the best case scenario, and in this same offense, gave better, but similar results.
But if they did a 3-year $100m type of deal, that only guarantees money in year 1, that’s fine.
Regardless of how much people like Baker, the history of QBs in this situation says to tread carefully, and certainly Licht is aware of that, and I’m sure Baker will be back in a way where he makes a ton of money, and the team isn’t stuck with a Derek Carr like deal.
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:39 pm
Oz Len Says:
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:34 pm
Rod Munch: He already did the 2-minute thing twice this year. He put a ball in the middle of 3- Bucs in the endzone of the Bills game, our guys were mugged, no call. Against Texas, he got a TD with Otton with 46 seconds left. Bucs defense let CJ score the other way, You always appear to say a lot but your words leave many holes where facts once lived
———-
And I remember Winston doing the same thing many times as well, then having the defense collapsed, the kicker miss, etc etc etc, and every single one of the Baker Bois were saying he sucked, should be cut immediately, etc.
The difference was Winston had the worst defense in football from 2015-2019 and the worst kicking game from 2015-2019, while playing the hardest schedule from 2015-2019. It wasn’t the NFC Cupcake division back then, he didn’t have a top 7 scoring defense, and didn’t have a solid kicker.
Remarkable how, with all those benefits, Baker gets every excuse under the sun made for him when he fails.
With that said, the playoffs is when you make your money, when plays step up big time and become legends … and Baker had his chance, and threw within 2 plays. Again, I’m not dumping on him completely, most QBs fail in that situation, maybe not that quickly, but most aren’t getting the score there. But I’m also not the one who was trolling people with constantly talking about how Baker is better than Brady and Mahomes, like the Baker Bois did all year.
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:40 pm
Rod
A simple question. You posted…”they know the history of QBs who are terrible then out of the blue have a career year.”
Perhaps I’m misreading but that sounds like you’re conceding that Baker had a career year. Which leads me to follow up with are you suggesting this is Baker’s FIRST “career year”.
IE Do you consider a guy getting drafted by a team who went 1-31 the two years prior to that selection, getting his team not only into the playoffs with an 11-5 record…beating their fiercist rivals on the road…and then narrowly missing upsetting the eventual SB champs and Mahomes in their crib NOT a career year? Was that just a mediocre performance?
IE…Baker has now done it twice…is their ANY point that you’d concede he’s a better player, NOT MORE TALENTED, than cement head Jaymiss? Let’s see…JW’s has won how many playoff games. Oops..has JW ever lead any team to the playoffs?
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:46 pm
Oneilbuc Says:
January 22nd, 2024 at 4:04 pm
Rob munch. To be honest other than the Baker Mayfield fan boys we know the answer to that question. It was answered yesterday day in Detroit he had a chance to tie the game with a minute and 48 seconds left and he threw a pick. This is why I say draft a quarterback even if they do resnig Baker Mayfield.
———–
I think it would be depend on the contract. I mean if Licht goes all in with Baker, and he comes out next year and is what he’s been his entire career, then Licht and Bowles and everyone else is getting fired. To me that seems like an insanely risky move by Licht if he bets his future on Baker, but if he does, then they’re not drafting anyone.
Meanwhile if the Bucs do a deal where they can get out of it after one year, and someone slips, then absolutely take the QB. If Baker was able to build on this year and become more consistent, then great, you do what the Packers did with Love – or perhaps you trade him. If Baker flames out, then of course you already got your QB of the future. That seems like the most logical thing to do, but again, you’d need someone to fall to you, and I really can’t see any QB falling that far.
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:46 pm
Chad—
“I would take baker over josh Allen, what has Josh Allen won? And I said if you take away Lamar’s ability to run and and extend plays then he is no better than baker”
What has Baker won? Bad analogy!
As far a taking Lamar’s ability to run, if you took Mahomes’ ability to pass, Baker would be superior to him as well …
If, if, if don’t cut it. It is what it is …
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:50 pm
You know there are a couple of guys that post on here that I have started not to even read, they are a broken record and bring nothing to the conversation besides the same old drivel that is hogwash to begin with.
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:51 pm
@SlyPirate
So you are saying Winfield is worth less than Derwin James?
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:51 pm
stpetebucfan – Being a game manager for the top running team in football, sitting behind the NFL’s best blocking team, just being asked to not screw up is hardly a franchise QB.
So let me ask you, if he’s always been this amazing QB with a remarkable past, why did the Browns dump him? Why did the Panthers dump him. Why did the Rams not even make an offer to keep him?
Rewriting history to pretend like Baker wasn’t labelled a bust coming into this season – what exactly does that do for you?
Baker had a solid year by NFL QB standards, he was 18th in QBR, 20th in scoring, scored the least number of points per game by anyone who started 17 games. He was fine – not amazing, but an average QB. Nothing wrong with that, unless you have people who think he’s a franchise QB who should be paid like one. He’s not. He’s a guy coming off a career year, with the history of being a bust, and those guys rarely pan out. However, sometimes they do pan out. So, if you’re the Bucs, you make sure you can get out of whatever deal you give him after a year. Not sure why that triggers you, but that seems like common sense to me.
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:58 pm
WyomingJoe – The man you worship, in the biggest moment of his life, failed you – and yet you take a victory lap?
This is why the Baker Bois are a cult. It doesn’t matter if Baker fails or not, they’re just programmed to say the same thing, reality be damned.
January 22nd, 2024 at 6:00 pm
@Rod Munch
You know 100% why Cleveland dumped him. They saw the next Lamar/Allen/Mahommes in Deshaun Watson and they owner who is a dirty owner and not loyal to anyone decided to go all in on the sweepstakes to get sexual harassing scumbag. The funny thing is that Flacco did better than Watson other than the turnovers. Probably would have had a better record over all with Mayfield. Deshaun Watson 61.4% completions, 7:4 TDs to INTs. Yeah sure looked better than Mayfield.
January 22nd, 2024 at 6:18 pm
RodMunch,
You sound a lot like your daddy Peter King. Neither one of you knows anything about talent. Last time I will say this. John Dorsey drafted Pat Mahomes and built the KC Chiefs. Dorsey drafted Mayfield when he was with the Browns. Dorsey now with Detroit Lions and we see how that is working. In short, Dorsey is the best talent evaluator in pro football. I have a feeling that Dorsey knows a hell of a lot more than you do about any QB’s skill set. You bluster your way through this blog and there are a few who take you seriously. Truth is you are just a loudmouthed fraud.
January 22nd, 2024 at 6:22 pm
Josh Allen and Baker Mayfield rushing 2023… JA 4.7 YPC, Rush Yards/G 30.8, 15 TD… BM 2.6 YPC, Rush Yards/G 9.6, 1 TD… not even close. Josh is very impressive as a rushing QB.
January 22nd, 2024 at 6:22 pm
@ Rod
It’s possible that we have already seen Baker’s ceiling. However, I am excited to see how he does with the same OC, in the same system with a better interior O-line and RB group…
But I agree I don’t want more than one year of fully guaranteed money maybe two at the most.
January 22nd, 2024 at 6:38 pm
3 years – $25M per year with incentives up to $30M.
If that deal was acceptable to Tom MFing Brady – then it should be good enough for Baker Mayfield.
January 22nd, 2024 at 6:44 pm
The most important thing for a team is consistency. Baker’s never had it since he came into the league. I’m comfortable giving him a decent contract with an escape clause for the team after a couple of years.
Keep the band together and let’s see what they can do.
January 22nd, 2024 at 6:51 pm
UKBuccaneer – We’re on the same page then – except I’d give him more upfront with a one-year escape cause. But it’s the same general feeling.
Baker proved himself enough that he certainly deserves to be back – and hopefully being under the same scheme helps with consistency, and if he can nail that, he’ll be a quality NFL starter and be here for a long time.
There’s things to work on, but also a good foundation, it will be interesting how it plays out, and I honest to goodness, hope it turns out for the best since he’s not going anywhere, and I want the Bucs to do well.
January 22nd, 2024 at 7:00 pm
Of course u can win a super bowl with Baker…Dilfer won one, Folds, hell even here with Brad Johnson..if u have a solid team around them. Then factor in his will power, work ethic, and second year in same offensive would all help.We got hot at end of year when team started to figure the game plans better, just like Bradys first year after learning a new team and adjusting second half of season we went on a roll. I’m excited about the future
January 22nd, 2024 at 7:12 pm
The Mighty TVVH says” With the exception of Tom Brady, the Bucs have NEVER had a franchise QB. ”
Uh we had Steve Young! He was a REAL franchise QB. Just not for this franchise.
January 22nd, 2024 at 7:28 pm
Rod
Thanks for a respectful snark free response. I’ll answer with the same effort.
“If he’s always been this amazing QB with a remarkable past, why did the Browns dump him? Why did the Panthers dump him. Why did the Rams not even make an offer to keep him?”
At the risk of repetition…my son lives in Columbus and long before the Bucs got him I asked him if Baker was the real deal. His take was yes he’s a good QB.
He added that it was difficult to judge just how good because Baker had HORRIBLE coaches, Horrible ownership, and a loud mouthed Prima Donna beotching about his # of touches. Then came the shoulder injury which Baker being Baker he tried to play through. So the Browns cut him. How did that work out for the Browns. DeShaun Watson?
Really? He didn’t make Baker’s mistake..this year he literally refused to play even after being cleared to play!!!
Rod I respect your analysis. I realize you work at it far more than me. I do not watch the all 22 so I defer to your efforts there. But If you wish to be honest and can handle some criticism..you lack CONTEXT!
The freaking Browns? And THEN the Stinking Panthers? They are two if not the two worst managed franchises for years now in the entire NFL. If Baker didn’t last there does that also mean McCaffery sucked? At least they got a few draft picks for McCaffery.
I don’t do the all22 but I am a voracious reader of the internet. The Rams wanted Baker…as a backup to Stafford. The papers speculated whether they could afford him and then realized it was a moot point since Baker wasn’t going to sign with a team that didn’t give him a CHANCE to compete for the starting job.
Now here is where we disagree generally Rod. Yes you watch the all 22 and bring some very good observations, but you lack context and you insert all kinds of OPINIONS in place of actual stats.
YOU calling somebody a ‘game manager” for derision simply does not match up with SCOREBOARD! I pointed out the actual RESULTS. Then we both sparred a bit over circumstances…Browns sucked…Baker a game manager? Both of those are opinions although again SCOREBOARD does literally indicate the Browns suck…1-31 two years prior.
So I accept your OPINION that Baker was a ‘game manager”…possibly said by many of Brad Johnson who won a SB and was talented enough to play both hoops and football for FSU..a 9th round draft pick. We can insult Brad as well but he can laugh at us and show his SB ring.
I’m not arguing about your OPINION…I’m stating facts. Baker has had TWO EXCELLENT seasons where he took teams forecast to SUCK to the playoffs and WON first round games! And he played well in the 2nd round against Mahomes and this year against a talented Lions team in their crib. HOW he did this, and any style points detracted I leave to you.
Whatever we can agree to disagree because I think you’ve already elevated your posts. Of course IMHO Baker helped you with that too. LOL
January 22nd, 2024 at 7:29 pm
@pickgrin – Tom had already made something like $400 million by the time he got to the Bucs plus Gisele was worth more than him. LOL. Baker’s family stole a bunch of his money. There’s no comparison. What’s with the casual fans on here lately spewing horse manure?
January 22nd, 2024 at 7:58 pm
Look bringing Baker Mayfield back is ok to me but if he’s asking for franchise quarterback money then let him walk. I say a 2 year deal with the option the second year if he sucks this coming season. I wouldn’t mind giving him 25 to 30 million that’s it . But at the same time they have to bring in a rookie to develop and this time give the rookie quarterback some first team reps this time at least 5 or 6 plays in practice.
January 22nd, 2024 at 8:06 pm
How can a career sub-.500 quarterback be anyone’s “franchise” quarterback?
January 22nd, 2024 at 8:47 pm
@ oneil – why would he take that crappy deal? He’ll get way better offers.
The cheapest deal we can get is the tag.
Are you people living in caves? QB salaries have skyrocketed.
We aren’t somehow immune nor is he taking some team friendly 2 year deal with a club option. LOLOLOL.
Some of you are living in fantasyland. Literally. DO you know how many QBs have won 2 playoffs games? Look it up. SMDH.
January 22nd, 2024 at 9:05 pm
Here’s why the franchise tag is NOT a reasonable option. First, we have limited cap space, something in the 40’s. Let’s just say 45. If the tag is 35, that leaves us 10. A franchise tag can’t be spread over multiple years, it all hits the cap that year. If we want to bring back Evans and Winfield and David, not to mention sign an interior O-line to beef up the middle and solidify other positions in free agency, I don’t think we can afford to have Baker hit the cap for 35 in 2024. They’ve gotta sign him to a deal that can reduce his number to something manageable next year.
January 22nd, 2024 at 9:10 pm
Sign Baker for 4 years 160mill @ 90 mill guaranteed with some incentives. That’s a respectable contract in a state with no income tax, that shows him he’s the starter for at least three more years, and let’s you push some money down the road so you can keep the other guys while avoiding salary cap hell. I think after Cleveland Baker just wants to be wanted and be a part of a winner. By that time you’ll know what you have. It’s 5 million less than Dak Prescott got and slightly more than Daniel Jones, seems pretty reasonable to me since Baker actually wins playoff games.
January 22nd, 2024 at 9:21 pm
I’d be more interested in ponying up major cash, if I was Licht, if Baker hadn’t shat himself on that final drive with the interception. Big money QB’s win games in those moments. I thought aloud, “He just cost himself $10M with that INT.”
January 22nd, 2024 at 9:40 pm
@Please
Was Tom Brady a “Big Money QB”? Did he ever “shat” himself in a playoff game.
OMG do we have short memories!!! How about this time last year?
The Bucs had a 6-0 deficit and had the ball at the Dallas 5-yard line on 2nd and goal, the seven-time Super Bowl winner received the snap and was pressured by the fast defense of “America’s Team”, then TB12 took the pass to the middle of the end zone where only safety Jayron Kearse was there, who caught the ball and came away with the interception.
Was that ALSO not a QB shatting himself at the worst possible moment. One major difference. Baker did it in a desperate come back attempt…Brady did it early in the game with nowhere near the same pressure.
NO for the morons who have reading comprehension. The point of this is not that Brady was not the GOAT…or that Mayfield is as good as Brady…the point is simple…EVERYBODY SCREWS UP SOMETIMES!!!
January 22nd, 2024 at 9:46 pm
Zyon McCollum is not taking the jobs if Dean or Davis.
We got to 1st hand how we could handle being a #2 outside corner yesterday- it was horrific. I’d say keep him at safety, he seems to play better there. At least in Todd Bowles’ scheme.
We still need a safety to pair with Winfield. And Winfield blew more than a few coverages this season too if we’re being honest.
As for Baker- he was a top-10 QB this year. And he’s had 2 other good seasons as well, so this didn’t just happen out of the blue. He’s earned another year. I’d be fine with the franchise tag, or a multi year deal that gives us the ability to get out of it. He won’t ever be a top-5 QB like Mahomes or Brady or Allen, but he can be pretty damn good.
Team has way bigger needs- OLB, DT/DE, C/G, and possibly a WR1 if Evans doesn’t return. I don’t care how you try to spin it, there’s no one on this roster than can replace Evan’s production. Oh and an ILB if David does retire.
January 22nd, 2024 at 9:53 pm
Let’s Go Bucs … ‘Joe, what does the Bucs 2024 salary cap mess look like? Can they resign everyone (Mayfield, Evans, Winfield, David)?
Not spelling that out here today. They are limited but they can also get creative with flexibility, especially if they’re willing to dish out significantly long-term deals. –Joe
After reading all 87 comments I lost track of what this article was about (franchise tagging Baker).
Looking back to the very start of the comments Joe, your answer to Let’s Go Bucs questions got me curious. What ‘significantly long-term deals’ can the Bucs reasonably make? Wirfs, Winfield & McLaughlin for sure; they’re all keepers. Maybe rework Vea’s contract (I wouldn’t, but JL might since he drafted him). But I can’t see doing a super-long contract for Mike Evans. Or for Baker Mayfield. Or for LVD.
It doesn’t look like we have nearly as much ‘flexibility’ to restructure contracts as we had this year. For instance, I wouldn’t restructure Godwin, Davis, Dean, Vea, or Shaq’s contracts (past injury history, game availabilities & age would all be factors). Not all that much room to maneuver & not that much CAP room left (only $48.7 mil with only 34 players signed, including Jensen & Gage). Conundrum in the making.
January 22nd, 2024 at 10:07 pm
@stpetebucfan
Correct, throwing an interception is not in itself shatting yourself – but throwing one on the final drive in a playoff game in a contract year… yeah man, that is a big shat.
I’m not saying don’t sign Baker… but don’t tie up 35-40m/year in him. He is not Mahomes or Lamar. He’s not winning games himself (exhibit A – Sunday evening, 4th quarter with 1 min left).
January 22nd, 2024 at 10:10 pm
And I like Baker! Had he marched down and tied that game, let’s go. But he didn’t prove it in a pivotal opportunity.
January 22nd, 2024 at 10:34 pm
Anyone who thinks Baker lost that game has marbles for brains. How about playing zone and letting the lions kill us in the middle of the field. How about the offense allowing 3 untouched sacks,I could go on.. Baker is the reason we hung in as long as we did.. some of you guys post crabs you can go back and read it..
January 22nd, 2024 at 10:42 pm
ExBrownsFan Says:
January 22nd, 2024 at 9:10 pm
So now every starting QB who’s decent gets 40 million per year? Just because the Giants overpaid Daniel Jones doesn’t mean other QB contracts need to be equally stupid.
January 22nd, 2024 at 10:57 pm
Rod Munch:And I remember Winston doing the same thing many times as well, then having the defense collapsed, the kicker miss, etc etc etc, and every single one of the Baker Bois were saying he sucked, should be cut immediately, etc.
So Rod, the Baker Bois were here before Baker was on the team, ragging on Winston?
January 22nd, 2024 at 11:26 pm
Jesus my last post is riddled with autocorrects and missing words.
Whoops
January 22nd, 2024 at 11:30 pm
Please Says:
January 22nd, 2024 at 10:10 pm
And I like Baker! Had he marched down and tied that game, let’s go. But he didn’t prove it in a pivotal opportunity.
—–
well here the thing. If he did it then it would be great UNTIL
the one game he doesn’t do it in ( because no QB in the history of the league includig Tom brought back gis team in every game ) and then it would be right back to the same argument.
FACT : Baker has had many such drives in the last two years. He won us the texan game before the defense gave it back and we have had mutlipe other games that by his arm nearly brought us back ( including a masterful hail mary that Godwin need only have looked for because it landed untouched right beside him). His Rams vs Raiders come back is still a thing of legend in LA.
NO doubt a bad decision but he apparently thought he had to make it so tried to laser it in . Nowhere near as crazy as Jordan Love’s brain dead toss on the run to a defender and only a defender in line to receive.
Still if you want to get baker on something – it cannot be ints. The dude has one of the lowest ints rates in the elague and as for that game –
we all know he only threw one – theres not a darn thing A Qb can do when he delivers the ball straight into a receivers two hands and he bobbles and bounce s it up int he air.
January 22nd, 2024 at 11:41 pm
NE fan, Cousins? Really, lifetime 1-4 in playoffs. Absurd!&The others are too old or have never smelled the success Baker has this year with a makeshift offensive line.
January 22nd, 2024 at 11:49 pm
Mush Mush Says:
January 22nd, 2024 at 5:58 pm
WyomingJoe – The man you worship, in the biggest moment of his life, failed you – and yet you take a victory lap?
This is why the Baker Bois are a cult
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🙂 🙂 Is this where we are supposed to forget tht as High Priest of the Trask Cult you OPENLy rooted for your (alleged) own team to be blown out on thusrday night footbal so that your Lord and Saviour Kyle would get to start? ( never mind the wanting Baker to get injured bit you posted – for the betterment of making the line better)
Thiis is where the Trask ies always have an advanage. They can always go after Baker’s mistakes. No non tras kie fans can come back with anything beides perhaps – is Kyle is putting too much presure on the left cheek as opppsd to his right while his derriere massages the pine?
You can even have a 3O% pass compeltion rate and its fine because
Solitaire by defintion has no spectators .
January 23rd, 2024 at 12:07 am
Tony marks – hey dummy, I don’t even like Trask.
At least get your fake news talking points right you idiot.
January 23rd, 2024 at 6:48 am
Rod Munch Says:
January 23rd, 2024 at 12:07 am
Tony marks – hey dummy, I don’t even like Trask.
——
Of course. Its like your predictions.
You change them when the facts prove you wrong and the pretend they were always what your latest claim is.
Whats next? You never claimed running backs are obsolete in theNFL in 2023?
Let me get the popcorn.
January 23rd, 2024 at 7:02 am
4@160 with 90 guaranteed is 3 years at 30 with an out, that saves money over the franchise tag and is reasonable. I think Baker wants to be wanted and a 3-year commitment is reasonable. Agree many of them are overpaid for much less in performance but 30 million is reasonable for a quarterback who’s actually won playoff games, is 28, and show promise in other seasons. Look at Kyler, Daniel, Dak what Have they won? How about Josh, DeShaun, or Justin? Honestly it don’t matter cuz we’re all at the mercy of Lamar and Mahommes…lol
January 23rd, 2024 at 7:43 am
Rod Munch: So let me ask you, if he’s always been this amazing QB with a remarkable past, why did the Browns dump him? Why did the Panthers dump him. Why did the Rams not even make an offer to keep him?
Lets clear up some of your repeated lies that you are trying to make facts.
The Browns had front office people who clashed with Baker’s personality, plus he was injured and should have been set down. His personality fought that and the Browns in an act of maleficence let him continue to struggle with his injury risking further harm. He still would have been back if not for Huckster owner flooding Sean De Watson with guaranteed money to come to Cleveland. Odel Beckham was twisted in there too.
Panthers, he asked for his release. Proven by him buying a ticket to LA before he was even released and not claimed by anyone on wavers.
The RAMS loved him and wanted him back but not to start, to support mega-payroll QB Matt Stafford. With injuries and talk of retirement, McVay wanted Mayfield to be a ready made plug-in for Stafford. Go to LA Times and read all the sports articles of team and fans lamenting Mayfield’s exit.
If Mayfield becomes a free agent, RAMS could very well be a destination.
So Rod, try making your points without extensive use of fiction.
January 23rd, 2024 at 1:23 pm
Oz Len Says:
January 23rd, 2024 at 7:43 am
So Rod, try making your points without extensive use of fiction
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He doesn’t know how. Dude has been fabricating all season long about multiple things.
January 23rd, 2024 at 1:26 pm
Baker has the “it” factor. Mid tier QBs do not have the “it” factor. Sign him.
January 23rd, 2024 at 2:16 pm
Give Baker a 4 or 5 year contract with an escape clause. Baker is 28 and should be good for 3-4 years at minimum, unless he gets injured. Baker wants to be in Tampa and team wants him to stay in Tampa, so let’s make a deal and keep him here in Tampa. I loved watching the Goat play here for the past 3 years and I think it would be fun to watch Baker for the next 3-4 years and hopefully keeps those boneheaded throws down to a minimum. Now, it’s going to be really challenging with the salary cap situation in trying to also keep Evans and some of our standout defensive players. Thank God it’s not my job to figure out those numbers. BTW, fire Bowles, hire an offensive HC and let’s go play. Go Bucs.
January 23rd, 2024 at 4:03 pm
Still have to laugh at the Baker hate club hanging the last INT on him. Yes, he threw it; but, an honest review of the replay and an understanding that there is no way that play was designed to have two receivers from opposite sides running crossing routes where they would nearly collide in the middle of the field. Otton was supposed to be underneath the linebacker in front of the zone defense. Mayfield never thought that Otton would be that deep behind the linebacker. Godwin was in the right spot as the deeper receiver. Ball was thrown to Otton and we all know what happened. Anyone who thinks Mayfield would hang that on Otton doesn’t get Mayfield. How about it Hate Club? Why not look at the replay?
January 23rd, 2024 at 10:55 pm
@unbelievable:
“I’m fine rolling with Mayfield, though I might have some concerns if Canales bolts, as they seem to be a good pairing.”
If Canales goes to Falcon, don’t sweat it. Canales has only coached up veterans like Geno and Baker. As the ATL HC he’ll have to lead the team, teach a new team and young QB the offense. I salivate at playing against that twice a year and the Panther’s dysfunction twice a year. That’s 4 wins right there, almost halfway to games won this year.
The leap is not insurmountable from Canales to some of the available QB coaches or passing game coordinators out there running the same offensive. They are all over the league growing from the McVay coaching tree. The offense is used by a quarter of the NFL teams. Basically play action wide zone west coast offense. Play calling is important. But Canales did not call plays until this year. Baker will work with any decent coach that knows this system. Especially with Evans and Godwin each already feeling Baker with 1000+ yard production. Same offense, different coordinator get at least same results – if not better in year 2.
January 23rd, 2024 at 11:07 pm
@stpetebucfan
“If he’s always been this amazing QB with a remarkable past, why did the Browns dump him? Why did the Panthers dump him. Why did the Rams not even make an offer to keep him?”
Browns 1-31 before Baker – first playoff in almost 30 years with Baker. The dude did break the rookie QB TD record and 7 wins first year more wins than previous 3 years. And post 90+ QB rating two of those years. I would discount the Freddie Kitchen and bad should years a little.
Panthers 2-14 after Baker – I think that was an awful franchise trending towards 1 win season. That offense was your grandfather’s offensive scheme by a coordinator that is out of the league who milked the Eli Manning offense for a decade. I don’t think anyone would have done well.
Rams had Matt Freaking Stafford not retiring and $106MM dead cap contract. They would have offered him backup contract but new Baker was a starter for another team.
Do the above “excuses” and “reasons” seem plausible and maybe near the truth?