Baker Mayfield Under Scrutiny After Week 2 Loss

After a Week 1 defeat by the Cincinnati Bengals, Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers experienced another setback in Week 2. They faced a 23-19 loss to Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns. The game showcased a notable comeback by the Browns. Mayfield had an opportunity to clinch victory but struggled to lead his team to a late fourth-quarter touchdown.

This marked Mayfield’s second consecutive loss, sparking debate over his salary expectations. Damien Harris, former NFL running back and current CBS Sports analyst, commented, “Baker Mayfield ain’t worth that money. I’m just gonna go ahead and say it. He’s not worth that money.”

Harris added, “That’s been the tale of his career. Sometimes he plays like it, but sometimes he doesn’t.” He questioned the wisdom of guaranteeing substantial money to a quarterback with inconsistent performance. Harris emphasized the unpredictability of Mayfield’s play, adding, “Are you gonna get the hot hand or the cold Baker Mayfield? That’s what we’re seeing the past two games. He’s not living up to the contract.”

Harris also pointed to other team issues, such as the lackluster performance of Emeka Egbuka and the run game, but reiterated that Mayfield’s performance has been subpar. In Sunday’s match, Mayfield achieved a 61.8% completion rate, recording 182 passing yards and one touchdown. However, a critical interception led to a Browns field goal, significantly affecting the final score. Harris highlighted Mayfield’s three turnovers in Week 1, which provided the Bengals with scoring opportunities and contributed to their victory. “I apologize for being blunt, but he’s not worth that kind of money,” Harris stated.

In September, ESPN noted that Mayfield signed a three-year, $165 million contract extension with the Buccaneers. With an 0-2 start, there are questions about whether the deal is justified. Nonetheless, the season is still young, offering Mayfield ample opportunity to improve and guide the Buccaneers to victories.

The Buccaneers will have a chance for redemption in Week 3, when they host the 2-0 Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, September 27, at 4:25 p.m. ET.