Baker Mayfield Faces Criticism After Buccaneers’ Second Loss

After losing their Week 1 opener to the Cincinnati Bengals, Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers struggled again in Week 2, suffering a 23-19 defeat to Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns. This loss highlighted an impressive comeback by the Browns and brought into focus Mayfield’s late-game difficulties in reaching the end zone.

Mayfield’s consecutive losses have sparked criticism regarding his salary. Damien Harris, a former NFL running back and current analyst with CBS Sports, expressed skepticism about the value of Mayfield’s contract. He stated, “Baker Mayfield ain’t worth that money. I’m just gonna go ahead and say it. He’s not worth that money.”

Harris highlighted the inconsistency in Mayfield’s performances, noting, “Sometimes he plays well, but other times he doesn’t. It’s unpredictable which version of Baker you’re going to see every game.”

Harris’s remarks underline the doubts surrounding Mayfield’s ability to fulfill his financial expectations, emphasizing his recent struggles, including the team’s issues beyond Mayfield. He pointed out inadequacies in the Buccaneers’ run game, specifically mentioning Emeka Egbuka’s absence.

On Sunday, Mayfield completed 61.8% of his passes, amassing 182 yards with one touchdown. However, his performance was marred by an interception, leading to a field goal for the Browns, a crucial factor in the game’s outcome. Harris, citing Mayfield’s turnovers in Week 1 that benefitted the Bengals, bluntly remarked, “I apologize for being blunt, but he’s not worth that kind of money.”

In September, ESPN disclosed Mayfield’s three-year, $165 million extension with the Buccaneers. Despite the team’s 0-2 start, the season is still young, allowing Mayfield time to improve and potentially secure victories for the Buccaneers.

The team will aim for redemption in Week 3, as they host the 2-0 Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, September 27, at 4:25 p.m. ET.