10 March 2024 , 03:00
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Baker Mayfield played a key role in keeping Mike Evans at Tampa Bay Buccaneers - as speculation grows about a possible long-term deal for the quarterback.
Former first-round pick Mayfield had what's widely viewed as his best season ever in the NFL after signing a one-year deal with the Buccaneers 12 months ago. This followed a challenging couple of years where he played for three different teams.
Mayfield went on to play his best football he's played in the NFL since being drafted. He was named a Pro Bowler in a bounce back season for the quarterback.
Evans was rewarded with a two-year extension and it didn't take long for the attention to switch back to Mayfield. Speaking about Mayfield's potential return to Tampa Bay, Evans was candid with reporters. He said: "I mean, I'm extremely confident.
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"I'm not 100 per cent, but he played really great for us last year, the city took him in, the players loved him - hopefully we get him back. But he should do what's best for him. Me and Baker, we played one season together.
"I feel like we can build on what we did last year, so hopefully we get him back. He's a hell of a player. I appreciate him. They're going to handle their process, and I trust (GM) Jason (Licht) and the front office no matter what happens."
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Mayfield was able to get the best out of Evans in Tampa Bay (Andrew Bershaw/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)He added: "I just want what's best for him. I think what's best for him would be to play with me and Chris Godwin, but there's a lot of great receivers in this league that could use his services as well."
Mayfield signed with the Buccaneers on a one-year deal often called a 'prove it' contract. He earned just $4million (£3.1m) in 2023, hoping to show off his skills and land a bigger deal later... and that's exactly what he did.
Baker led Tampa Bay to a playoff victory, threw 28 touchdowns, and helped star receiver Evans shine. The Buccaneers have said goodbye to their old playcaller from last season, as Dave Canales is now the head coach for the Carolina Panthers.
But they've brought in Liam Coen to take over. Coen used to work with Mayfield at the Los Angeles Rams, and there's even a video of them hugging in Tampa Bay after the playcaller signed his new contract.
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story.