Is Baker Mayfield truly “underpaid” at $33 million? Despite a better playoff record than some of the league’s highest earners, his current contract has sparked a major debate among fans and analysts. What does this mean for quarterback valuations in the NFL today? Dive into the surprising comparisons that are shaking up salary discussions!
Baker Mayfield’s career trajectory as an NFL quarterback has presented a unique paradox, consistently outperforming expectations yet remaining undervalued in terms of his compensation, sparking a significant debate about fair market value within professional football.
Emerging as a late bloomer, Mayfield’s recent surge in performance has created a conundrum for analysts and fans alike. His unexpected ascent complicates traditional quarterback rankings and challenges the conventional wisdom regarding player valuation, leaving even his own team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in a quandary over his appropriate salary.
Despite guiding his teams to two playoff victories, including a notable win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023, Baker Mayfield is currently settling for an average annual salary of $33 million. This figure positions him as only the 19th highest-paid quarterback in the NFL, a stark contrast to his playoff success compared to several higher-earning counterparts, including Justin Herbert.
A primary point of contention and comparison arises when evaluating Mayfield’s deal against the lucrative contract of Dak Prescott. Prescott’s substantial earnings, despite a career playoff record of 2-5, have become a benchmark in discussions surrounding quarterback contracts, often highlighting discrepancies in how performance, market demand, and perceived leadership are monetized in the league.
Mayfield’s current financial standing places him more in line with quarterbacks like Geno Smith and Sam Darnold. This comparison feels particularly incongruous given Mayfield’s superior passing yardage and overall production throughout the past two seasons, further underscoring the perceived undervaluation of his contributions on the field.
However, the horizon offers a glimmer of hope for a substantial payday. If Baker Mayfield can lead the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a third consecutive NFC South title—a plausible feat given the division’s current competitive landscape—his leverage for a new deal will significantly increase. Experts suggest his next contract should command no less than $40 million annually, with a $50 million per year figure well within the realm of possibility depending on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ long-term vision.
The departure of offensive coordinator Liam Coen, who played a pivotal role in Mayfield’s recent success, adds another layer of complexity. Should Baker Mayfield demonstrate his continued ability to perform at a high level under a new coaching scheme, it would solidify his position as an elite talent deserving of a top-tier NFL salary, making a lucrative contract extension almost inevitable in the upcoming offseason and impacting future NFL Salary negotiations.
