Tampa Bay Buccaneers Quarterback Baker Mayfield Earns Second Pro Bowl Selection
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has solidified his position as a favorite among fans with his gritty and passionate play. Mayfield’s exceptional performances have led the Buccaneers to back-to-back NFC South titles and secured him a lucrative three-year, $100 million contract extension. Despite facing constant changes at offensive coordinator, Mayfield continues to produce some of the best years of his career.
Impressive Season Stats
In the 2024 season, Mayfield set a new career-high by completing 407 out of 570 passes for 4,500 yards. He threw an impressive 41 touchdowns to just 16 interceptions. Additionally, Mayfield showcased his versatility by adding 378 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. Throughout the season, he threw for over 300 yards in six games, including a standout performance against the Baltimore Ravens where he amassed 370 yards and three touchdowns. Another notable game was his five-touchdown, zero-interception performance against the Carolina Panthers in December.
Breaking Buccaneers Franchise Records
Mayfield’s exceptional season has seen him surpass records set by even the legendary Tom Brady during his time with the Buccaneers. In just two years with the team, Mayfield has already earned two Pro Bowl invitations, becoming the first quarterback in franchise history to achieve this feat. This accomplishment speaks volumes about his impact on the team and his ability to lead them to success.
Replacing Jayden Daniels
Mayfield has been chosen to replace Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels in the Pro Bowl. Daniels opted out of the game after his team’s loss in the NFC Championship against the Philadelphia Eagles. Interestingly, Daniels and the Commanders were the ones who eliminated the Buccaneers in the opening round of the postseason. It seems that fate has brought Mayfield full circle, starting and ending his season against Washington.
Continuing the Buccaneers’ Legacy
Tom Brady, who spent three seasons with the Buccaneers, led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2021. Although he only earned one Pro Bowl selection during his time with Tampa Bay, Brady’s retirement marked the beginning of a streak of NFC South championship runs that Mayfield has helped maintain. Mayfield’s impact and consistency have been crucial in continuing the Buccaneers’ success.
Pro Bowl Recognition
Mayfield’s outstanding performance has earned him a well-deserved spot on the NFC Pro Bowl team. He will join quarterbacks Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions and Sam Darnold of the Minnesota Vikings. The Pro Bowl games will kick off on Thursday, January 30, with the Skills Showdown, followed by the main event on Sunday, February 2, at Camping World Stadium. Fans can catch the action on ESPN and ABC.
Looking Ahead
The Buccaneers have Mayfield under contract until the end of the 2026 season. However, he will face yet another change in offensive coordinator next year, making it his eighth different coordinator in eight years. This adjustment will test Mayfield’s adaptability and skill in working with new coaching strategies.
Conclusion
Baker Mayfield’s exceptional performances on the field have solidified his place as a franchise favorite for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His gritty play, record-breaking achievements, and consistent leadership have earned him a second Pro Bowl selection. As he continues to navigate the challenges of changing offensive coordinators, Mayfield’s impact on the team’s success remains undeniable. Buccaneers fans can look forward to witnessing Mayfield’s continued growth and success in the coming seasons.
