Baker Mayfield has experienced a notable transformation in his public perception, from being the first overall draft pick with the Cleveland Browns to becoming an MVP contender in his third year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After the Buccaneers’ 38-35 victory against the Seattle Seahawks, a video surfaced where Mayfield responded to the provocations of a Seahawks fan in the tunnel before the start of the game. There were gestures and strong words.
Mayfield sought out the fan after the victory, pointing at him while celebrating in the tunnel, even though the fan was shouting “You’re still bad!”. In Cleveland, where the Browns drafted him in 2018, this trade might have been received differently. However, as a member of the Bucs, with a 4-1 start to the 2025 season and leading his team to four thrilling last-minute victories, the situation is perceived differently. According to Elias Sports, this mark is the most for any team in its first five games since the 1970 merger.You’re going to be very quiet at halftime.
Baker Mayfield
Mayfield, who entered the NFL at 23, has found his way, playing the best football of his career at 30. He has mentioned that the Bucs “let me be myself”, which has contributed to two division titles in the post-Tom Brady era. Outside of the field, Mayfield and his wife, Emily, have a daughter, Kova Jade. The family has been active in the Tampa Bay community. Their foundation, the Baker and Emily Mayfield Foundation, supports lesser-known non-profit organizations, which, along with his playing style, has resonated with the fans. There is a growing number of fanatics across the league who are supporting Mayfield as he continues to write his comeback story.At the beginning of my career I was “arrogant, immature”. Now it’s “bravery” and “he’s a dog”. The same, but different.
Baker Mayfield
Sterling Shepard, Buccaneers wide receiver and former Oklahoma University teammate, has witnessed Mayfield’s transformation and his provocations. Haason Reddick, outside linebacker who joined the Bucs this offseason, has felt that momentum on the other side of the ball.Essentially, definitely the same, but matured in different ways. I don’t worry about the small things that don’t matter. Now, if you put it in the context of a competitive football game, in that environment, that will never change.
Baker Mayfield
We have confidence in Bake. He’s done it again and again this season. Definitely my favorite for MVP candidate at the moment. He’s playing at an unprecedented level.
Haason Reddick
