The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have emerged as strong competitors in the NFC and beyond, largely because of Baker Mayfield’s leadership and the offensive roster curated by general manager Jason Licht. Mayfield’s performance in the 2024 season was a major factor in the team’s success and has many wondering if he could become a serious MVP candidate in 2025.
Last year, Mayfield guided an offense that ranked fourth-best in the league, averaging 29.5 points per game. He threw for 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns, while maintaining a completion rate of 71.4%, even without key receivers Chris Godwin after the seventh week and Mike Evans for a month. This resilience hints that his 2025 season could bring even stronger statistics with additional support.
New Additions Could Elevate Mayfield’s Game in 2025
The Buccaneers’ offense is expected to improve further in 2025 with the inclusion of first-round draft pick Emeka Egbuka and anticipated development from running backs Bucky Irving and wide receiver Jalen McMillan. If these players meet expectations, Mayfield may benefit significantly, raising his potential as a league MVP contender.
According to NFL.com,
“Mayfield has found the fountain of career renaissance in Tampa,”
pointing to his back-to-back Pro Bowl selections since joining the Buccaneers. His recent form suggests he might accomplish what previous franchise stars have not: winning the MVP award while playing for Tampa Bay.
What It Takes for Mayfield to Compete with Top Quarterbacks
For Mayfield to establish himself as a legitimate MVP contender, a few conditions seem necessary. Tampa Bay would likely need to secure around 12 wins, positioning themselves as the top NFC seed, while Mayfield would have to replicate or exceed his 2024 performance, with fewer interceptions. This is especially challenging given the competition from established stars like Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Patrick Mahomes, and Joe Burrow.
NFL.com highlights,
“Mayfield produced career highs of 4,500 passing yards and 41 passing touchdowns in 2024 under Liam Coen, who’s now the Jaguars’ head coach. If he continues his glory days in Tampa, Mayfield for MVP might well be a very real campaign in 2025.”
Challenges Loom for Buccaneers in Upcoming Season
Despite the optimism around Mayfield’s individual progress, some analysts foresee difficulties ahead for Tampa Bay in 2025. Maintaining a high level of play amid strong NFC contenders will require consistent execution on offense and defense. How the Buccaneers navigate these challenges will play a major role in Mayfield’s MVP chances.
A key player’s health and the effectiveness of new additions such as Egbuka will be crucial. The team’s ability to stay competitive will determine if Mayfield’s impressive recent form translates into a legitimate drive for the league’s most valuable player honor.
The Outlook for Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers
Baker Mayfield’s upward trajectory with Tampa Bay places him among potential MVP candidates entering the 2025 NFL season. His impressive 2024 statistics and the strategic enhancements to the Buccaneers’ roster provide a platform for even greater success. However, surpassing last season’s high standards amid tough competition will be a demanding task.
Should Mayfield replicate his high level of play and help the Buccaneers secure a dominant NFC position, he could become one of the most surprising MVP contenders heading into the new season. The coming months will reveal if this breakout quarterback can meet the challenge and stake his claim among the NFL’s elite.