In the world of American football, the journey of a quarterback can be a tumultuous one. Just ask Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, who knows all too well the ups and downs of the position. Mayfield, once a castaway quarterback bouncing from team to team, found a home in Tampa Bay where he has thrived.
Fittingly, Mayfield publicly supported Carolina Panthers QB Bryce Young, who recently found himself benched. Mayfield empathized with Young, knowing what it’s like to struggle and then find success in the right situation. “I’m sitting here right now in a way better fit than other places I’ve been. That’s not to put other teams down, but it’s a matter of the pieces around you (and) the coaches,” Mayfield shared.
The 2018 No. 1 overall pick by the Cleveland Browns, Mayfield faced adversity when the Browns acquired Deshaun Watson in 2022, leading to his exit from Cleveland. After a short stint with the Panthers, Mayfield was claimed off waivers by the Los Angeles Rams before eventually landing in Tampa Bay in 2023.
Last season, Mayfield achieved career-highs in passing yards and touchdown passes, earning himself a spot in the Pro Bowl. His impressive performance resulted in a three-year contract extension with the Buccaneers, solidifying his place in Tampa Bay.
Mayfield’s journey from a castaway quarterback to a Pro Bowl player serves as inspiration for Young, who at just 23 years old has a bright future ahead of him. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick still has years left in the NFL, with his rookie contract running through the 2026 season. Despite his recent benching, Panthers coach Dave Canales remains adamant that the team is not looking to trade Young, leaving his future in Carolina uncertain but hopeful.
In the unpredictable world of the NFL, Mayfield’s story is a reminder that success can come to those who persevere. As Mayfield envisions a bright future for Young, he serves as a testament to the resilience and determination required to succeed in the competitive world of professional football.
