The New England Patriots still remain high on Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, even if the odds of signing him are slim, according to a new report.
Mayfield had a career-year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023. He recorded 4,044 passing yards, 28 touchdowns and 10 interceptions last season. Reports indicated last week that Mayfield had supporters within the Patriots’ organization.
Mayfield could serve as a bridge quarterback of sorts, especially if the team elects to take a quarterback with the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. However, it appears the odds of that happening are a long-shot at this point, per The Athletic’s Jeff Howe.
Echoing others, the Patriots are very high on Baker Mayfield, sources have said. But I’d consider that one a long shot for a variety of reasons (Pats in position to draft a QB, Mayfield’s free agent contract, likely several other suitors, etc.). Never say never. Just not likely.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) March 3, 2024
This is certainly not an ideal report for New England, but they do have a chance to grab a high-profile quarterback in April. Mayfield would undoubtedly command a bit of money, with a contract projection from Spotrac putting him in the four-year, $120 million range.
New England might be wise to pivot to other targets on the quarterback board.