Baker Mayfield and a young core give Buccaneers reason for optimism despite disappointing finish

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield reacts while speaking at a news conference after an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Washington Commanders in Tampa, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield reacts while speaking at a news conference after an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Washington Commanders in Tampa, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)


3 photos
Save Story
Leer en español

Estimated read time: Less than a minute

TAMPA, Fla. — Baker Mayfield had a career year and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers improved their win total, won a fourth straight division title and made an NFC-best fifth consecutive playoff appearance. Still, they started an early vacation. A disappointing 23-20 loss to the Washington Commanders in a wild-card game left a bitter taste. The Buccaneers fell short of their goal of winning the Super Bowl for a fourth straight season. This after Tom Brady arrived in 2020, led them to a title and raised the bar for the franchise. But there's reason for optimism, including the Bucs' impressive 2024 draft class. And Mayfield is still under contract and playing like a top-tier quarterback.

Photos

Most recent NFL stories

Related topics

NFLNational Sports
Rob Maaddi

    SPORTS NEWS STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX

    From first downs to buzzer beaters, get KSL.com’s top sports stories delivered to your inbox weekly.
    By subscribing, you acknowledge and agree to KSL.com's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
    Newsletter Signup

    KSL Weather Forecast

    KSL Weather Forecast
    Play button