Tampa Bay Buccaneers Surprise Contenders? Baker Mayfield Eyes Another Playoff Run
A New Era of Belief in Tampa
When the 2024 NFL season began, few analysts gave the Tampa Bay Buccaneers any real chance at contention. The post-Tom Brady world was expected to be chaotic, inconsistent, and transitional. But Baker Mayfield had other plans.
Fast forward to 2025, and the buzz around Tampa is not about rebuilding—it’s about contending. With Mayfield defying the critics, a core of resilient veterans, and a defense that doesn’t blink under pressure, the Buccaneers have carved out a spot as surprise contenders heading into the 2025 NFL season.
The question now is: Can Baker Mayfield lead another playoff run and make Tampa Bay a serious postseason threat?
The Rise of Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay
From Journeyman to Locker Room Leader
Baker Mayfield arrived in Tampa with a point to prove. After bouncing between Cleveland, Carolina, and a late-season stint with the Rams, many believed his starting days were over. But Tampa gave him a shot—and he took full advantage.
In 2024, Mayfield threw for:
- 3,945 yards
- 28 touchdowns
- 10 interceptions
- 64.8% completion rate
He led the Buccaneers to an NFC South title and a Wild Card playoff win. Suddenly, Baker wasn’t just a stopgap—he was the face of the franchise.
Why Mayfield Fits in Tampa
- Grit Matches the Team’s Identity
The Bucs are tough, physical, and mentally resilient. Mayfield mirrors that with his play style and leadership. - Stability at Offensive Coordinator
Offensive coordinator Dave Canales built a system around Mayfield’s strengths: quick reads, play-action, and simplified progressions. - Support from Veterans
Players like Mike Evans and Chris Godwin supported Mayfield early and consistently. That trust has translated into on-field chemistry.
What Makes Tampa Bay a Surprise Contender?
1. Experienced and Balanced Roster
Unlike traditional rebuilds, Tampa never fully tore down their roster. They retained:
- Mike Evans (WR): Still an elite red-zone threat
- Chris Godwin (WR): Reliable across the middle
- Tristan Wirfs (OL): All-Pro-level pass protector
- Lavonte David & Antoine Winfield Jr. (Defense): Veteran leadership and production
This mix of veterans and ascending players has made the Buccaneers a dangerous team on both sides of the ball.
2. Defensive Identity Remains Intact
The Bucs’ defense ranked 8th in scoring defense last season. With head coach Todd Bowles, a defensive mastermind, still calling plays, the unit continues to frustrate even elite quarterbacks.
Key defensive traits:
- Aggressive blitz packages
- Elite red-zone defense
- Turnover generation (28 takeaways in 2024)
This defense keeps the Bucs in every game, even when the offense struggles.
3. Weak NFC South
Let’s be honest—the NFC South isn’t loaded. With uncertainty in Carolina, Atlanta’s revolving QB situation, and the Saints stuck in neutral, Tampa has a clear path to repeat as division champs. That means home playoff games and a higher seed—both crucial for postseason success.
Baker Mayfield: The Mental Game
The Chip on His Shoulder
Mayfield has never shied away from criticism. Whether it was being labeled “too short” or a “system QB,” he’s internalized it all. That chip fuels his preparation, his intensity, and his playmaking ability.
He’s not trying to be perfect. He’s trying to win. And that mentality resonates in the locker room.
Leadership Growth
Teammates have praised Baker for his maturity and command of the huddle. He’s no longer just an energetic presence—he’s a respected veteran who studies tape, takes ownership of mistakes, and lifts others around him.
2025 Offseason Moves That Strengthen the Case
Drafting WR Zakhari Franklin
The Buccaneers needed depth at wide receiver behind Evans and Godwin. Franklin brings explosive speed, elite footwork, and the ability to separate from man coverage. He could become a vital part of the vertical passing game.
Upgrading the Run Game
The run game was inconsistent last season. The front office responded by signing D’Onta Foreman and drafting Trey Benson, providing a one-two punch that can help Mayfield with play-action opportunities and reduce his throw count.
OL Reinforcements
Pass protection was a weakness in stretches of 2024. The Bucs drafted interior linemen and added depth via free agency. The goal is clear—keep Baker upright and give him time to work.
Key Games in the 2025 Schedule
Week 3: vs Philadelphia Eagles
A litmus test early in the season. If Tampa competes or wins, the league will take them seriously.
Week 6: at New Orleans Saints
Divisional matchup that could swing the NFC South standings.
Week 11: vs San Francisco 49ers
Facing one of the league’s most complete teams. A playoff-caliber battle.
Week 15: at Dallas Cowboys
Potential playoff preview. Big-time pressure on the road.
Offensive Scheme & Strategy in 2025
High Play-Action Rate
Mayfield is most efficient in play-action. Expect the Buccaneers to run more two-tight-end sets, use motion to diagnose coverages, and lean on the run game early to set up deep shots.
Spread Concepts in 3rd Downs
To move the chains, the Bucs often go to a spread look with three WRs and Godwin working the slot. Mayfield thrives when he has quick reads and rhythm throws available.
Red Zone Efficiency
The Bucs ranked 6th in red zone TD conversion rate last season. With Evans’ size and Mayfield’s creativity, they remain dangerous inside the 20.
If the Bucs Are to Make a Playoff Run…
Here’s what needs to happen:
- Baker Mayfield must stay efficient
Turnovers killed momentum in his Cleveland days. In Tampa, he’s learned restraint. That must continue. - Mike Evans must remain elite
Evans had over 1,200 yards and 12 TDs in 2024. If he declines, the offense loses its edge. - Defense must stay healthy
When healthy, the Bucs’ D is top 10. Depth is limited, so health is a must. - Young talent must rise
Franklin, Benson, and rookie DBs must contribute quickly.
Projected Stat Line for Baker Mayfield in 2025
- 4,100 passing yards
- 29 touchdowns
- 11 interceptions
- 66.2% completion
- QBR around 60
That stat line keeps the Bucs in every game and pushes them toward a second straight playoff berth.
Can Tampa Bay Actually Win the NFC?
It’s a long shot—but not impossible.
Why they could:
- Great quarterback chemistry
- Experienced roster
- Weak division
- Battle-tested defense
Why they might fall short:
- Lack of elite offensive line depth
- No true RB1 workhorse
- Mayfield’s ceiling still unknown in big playoff games
Still, if the defense holds and Baker continues to improve, there’s no reason Tampa can’t win 10+ games and get hot in January.
FAQs
Q: Is Baker Mayfield Tampa Bay’s long-term QB?
A: If he repeats or improves on his 2024 performance, expect a contract extension and long-term commitment.
Q: Who are the top targets in 2025?
A: Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and rookie Zakhari Franklin headline the receiving corps.
Q: How good is the Bucs’ defense?
A: They ranked top 10 in scoring and red zone defense in 2024. They return most starters in 2025.
Q: Can Tampa win the NFC South again?
A: Absolutely. They’re arguably the most stable team in the division.
Belief is Real in Tampa
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers aren’t just a feel-good story—they’re real contenders. And Baker Mayfield, once seen as a failed No. 1 pick, is now the heartbeat of this football team.
He’s not flashy. He’s not perfect. But he wins games, commands the locker room, and gives Tampa Bay hope. As the 2025 season looms, one thing is clear:
The Buccaneers are back—and Baker Mayfield is leading the charge.
