Baker Mayfield understands when he hears a compliment, even if it sounds like an insult. That's one reason he's such a good fit for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who re-signed the burly quarterback to a three-year contract earlier this week.
During Wednesday's signing press conference, Bucks general manager Jason Richt was asked about Mayfield's mental and physical strength and how important that is to him and the organization.
The whole venue burst into laughter at Licht's answer.
“He set the tone for this team. Well, on a scale of 1 to 10, he's probably a 10, for lack of a better word,” Richt said.
Mayfield, who has cultivated a sense of humor about himself, was able to recognize that it was really a compliment.
“Thank you,” Mayfield interjected. “I'll take that.”
Richt immediately provided an explanation.
“Baker is like an offensive lineman in a quarterback's body. That's what fueled this team this year, and he's a big part of that,” Richt said.
#Bucks GM Jason Licht had this to say about Baker Mayfield's toughness:
“He set the tone for this team with those words. He's probably one out of 10, for lack of a better word, a perfect 10.”
Mayfield: “Thank you. I'll take that.” pic.twitter.com/FlSNue7wVO
— Pewter Report 🏴☠️ (@PewterReport) March 13, 2024
Head coach Todd Bowles was able to name some of Mayfield's best qualities and give the QB1 a compliment that actually sounded like a compliment.
“It's always great when you can develop a player and a talent like Baker,” Bowles said. “Baker is the epitome of what we look for in a player. He is tough, determined, competitive, resilient, and lifts up those around him. He is a thoughtful, loyal teammate and team member. He will do whatever it takes to help us win. He has been a major contributor to our success in the 2023 season, and we look forward to him continuing to lead our offense in the years to come.”
It looks like Mayfield has finally found the right place to play. The 28-year-old, who struggled with the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams in 2022 after being traded to the Cleveland Browns, signed a $4 million show-me contract with the Bucks in 2023 and then had the best season of his career. He threw for 4,044 yards, 28 touchdowns and just 10 interceptions, showing grit and perseverance during a terrible midseason period and ultimately leading his team to the playoffs.
Mayfield had already decided to stay in the area, whether he signed with the Bucks or not. He and his wife Emily are expecting their first child, a girl, in April. They decided to make Tampa their permanent home. After a really great season.
