The Bucs’ primary priority going into the offseason is Baker Mayfield’s future. They are the NFC South champions.

Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers believe they have established a solid foundation for continued success. However, the major question facing the NFC South champions in the upcoming months is whether Mayfield, the quarterback who revitalized his career by replacing Tom Brady, will continue to be a part of the team’s future.

After the NFC divisional-round playoff loss to the Detroit Lions on Sunday, Mayfield expressed his desire to remain with Tampa Bay. He played the 2023 season on a one-year, $4 million contract, with additional incentives exceeding $2 million.

While the Bucs are open to the possibility of a long-term deal, discussions have not yet commenced with the 28-year-old quarterback, who has played for four teams over the last three seasons.

Mayfield highlighted his genuine affection for the team and expressed his hope for a reunion with key players to make significant strides in the second year of the offensive system. He emphasized his gratitude for the opportunity provided by the organization and acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding how things will play out.

During the 2018 draft, Mayfield was the No. 1 overall pick and set career highs in completions (364), passing yards (4,044), and touchdowns (28) in the 2023 season. He notably cut down on costly mistakes that had plagued his previous stints with the Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Rams.

The Bucs signed Mayfield following Tom Brady’s retirement last winter, envisioning him as a good fit for the system implemented by the incoming offensive coordinator, Dave Canales. Coach Todd Bowles praised Mayfield for not trying to emulate Brady but instead building his mark in a new system.

Mayfield’s successful year with the Bucs has raised hopes for his return, but the team faces several challenges, including the departure of key pass-catchers through the transfer portal and the NFL Draft. The future of players like leading receiver Kobe Prentice, as well as prominent figures such as Isaiah Bond and Mike Evans, remains uncertain. Coach Bowles expressed his desire to see Mayfield return, emphasizing that it is too early to discuss specifics, and business considerations will play a role in the decisions.