In the high-stakes world of the NFL, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has emerged as a modern-day comeback story—almost like a “Football Lazarus.” His resurgence is so dramatic, it wouldn’t be surprising to see it turned into a movie someday.
Mayfield’s rise has now been recognized by ESPN, which ranked him No. 10 in its annual list of top NFL quarterbacks. The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft has solidified his role as Tampa Bay’s starter heading into his third season with the team. Unsurprisingly, Kansas City Chiefs star and three-time Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes held the top spot for the third year in a row.
Mayfield signed with the Buccaneers on a one-year, \$4 million deal before the 2023 season, but after leading the team to the playoffs, he earned a three-year, \$100 million contract heading into 2024.
“Mayfield represents the NFL’s ability to revive careers at the game’s most critical position,” wrote ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. “When he signed a modest one-year deal and guided Tampa to the postseason, it was a feel-good redemption arc. Doing it again, and doing it better, proved it wasn’t a fluke. Only Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson have more touchdown passes over the last two years than Mayfield’s 73.”
He was one of three quarterbacks to crack the Top 10 rankings for the first time, joining Jalen Hurts (No. 9) of the Eagles and Jayden Daniels (No. 5) of the Commanders. Mayfield is also one of just three QBs over age 30 to make the list, alongside Matthew Stafford (No. 6) and Jared Goff (No. 8).
One anonymous NFL executive praised Mayfield’s fearless playing style:
“Fearless as both a thrower and a runner,” they said. “He’s a true leader who earns the respect of his teammates. He’s got more arm talent than people realize, moves well in the pocket, and can take off for yards when needed. He’s aggressive and not afraid to go after defenses. Honestly, he reminds me a little of Brett Favre. He’s got that same attacking mentality—like, ‘F— you, I’m coming for you.’ Defenders feel that.”
Mayfield had his best season yet in 2024. After the Buccaneers stumbled to a 4-6 start due to injuries to key receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, Mayfield helped rally the team to finish 10-7, claiming a third straight NFC South title. He earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl nod and set career highs in passing yards (4,500), touchdowns (41), rushing yards (378), and rushing touchdowns (3).
Despite his production, Mayfield may be one of the league’s most undervalued quarterbacks. With an average salary of \$33 million per year, he ranks as the 19th highest-paid QB—trailing nine others who didn’t even make the playoffs last season.
If Mayfield delivers another standout year in 2025, a hefty raise could be in his future—potentially pushing him into the \$50 million-per-season range.
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