Although the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ultimately fell short against the Detroit Lions in Sunday's divisional-round game, losing 31-23, it appears Baker Mayfield's "prove it" season will have a happy ending. There is mutual interest between the Buccaneers and their quarterback on bringing him back next year, possibly on a big contract extension, according to NFL Media.
It's a pretty simple situation. The Buccaneers want Mayfield back, and the former No. 1 overall pick wants to stay in Tampa. And while the franchise tag is an option, Mayfield could be in line to receive a big extension that is on part with other franchise quarterback salaries.
Mayfield, 28, signed with Tampa this past offseason and is enjoying his best season to date. He's a major reason why the Buccaneers advanced to the divisional round of the NFC playoffs. Mayfield threw for 337 yards and three touchdowns in Tampa Bay's 32-9 win over the Eagles on Super Wild Card Weekend. He threw for 349 yards with three touchdowns and two picks in Sunday's loss.
Mayfield will likely be back in Tampa, but his offensive coordinator may not be. Dave Canales, who has played an integral role in Mayfield and the Buccaneers' offensive success this season, has received interest from teams that currently have head-coaching openings. Canales reportedly interviewed for the Carolina Panthers' vacant head coach position this past week.
Canales might not be back, but if it was up to Mayfield, Mike Evans will not be leaving Tampa this offseason via free agency. Mayfield made that clear after Sunday's game, a game that saw Evans catch eight passes for 147 yards and a score.
"If I'm back, I want Mike (Evans) back," Mayfield said, via NFL Media. "That guy's a stud."
