Title: Baker Mayfield Named Tampa Bay Buccaneers Starting Quarterback for 2023 Season
Date: August 22, 2023
Author: Jenna Laine, ESPN Staff Writer
Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles announced on Monday that Baker Mayfield will take over as the team’s starting quarterback for the upcoming 2023 season. Mayfield, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, beat out Kyle Trask for the coveted role.
After an extensive quarterback competition throughout training camp, Bowles, alongside general manager Jason Licht and offensive coordinator Dave Canales, decided to award the starting position to Mayfield. Although the decision reduced the number of reps for the eventual starter, the Bucs believed it was crucial to give Trask a fair opportunity to compete after spending two seasons as a backup to Tom Brady and Blaine Gabbert.
Throughout his time in camp, Trask showcased remarkable improvement in various areas, including accuracy, fundamentals, decision-making, and his understanding of Canales’ new offensive system. At one point, he even outperformed Mayfield in practices. However, Mayfield’s experience, having started 69 regular-season games and leading the Cleveland Browns to a playoff victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, ultimately played a significant role in the decision-making process.
Mayfield’s preseason performances solidified his position as the starting quarterback. In the first preseason game against the Steelers, he displayed control and command of the offense, completing 8 of 9 passes for 63 yards, a touchdown, and no interceptions.
In comparison, Trask started the second preseason game and delivered a commendable performance as well. Across both preseason games, Trask completed 26 of 38 passes for 317 yards, scoring a touchdown and an interception. While he did experience a fumble against the Jets on a sack, it was ultimately recovered by tight end Cade Otton.
The Buccaneers acquired Mayfield this offseason on a one-year deal valued at $4 million, which can potentially increase to $8.5 million with incentives. The team hopes that Mayfield can not only resurrect his career but also help Tampa Bay maintain their success after the retirement of Tom Brady.
As the Buccaneers gear up for the 2023 season, all eyes will be on Baker Mayfield as he aims to fill the void left by the legendary Tom Brady and lead the team to another championship run.