Bucs' Mayfield and Bowles enter 2026 season under pressure
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Quarterback Baker Mayfield is entering the final season of his contract. Photo: Mike Carlson/Getty Images
With stars gone, Baker Mayfield's future unresolved and head coach Todd Bowles under pressure, the Bucs enter 2026 on a knife's edge.
Why it matters: Another disappointing season could push Tampa Bay toward a franchise reset.
Catch up quick: The Bucs squandered a 6-2 start last season, losing the division title and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2019.
- The offseason brought more upheaval, with Mike Evans departing, Lavonte David retiring and Tampa Bay replacing Josh Grizzard with Zac Robinson, its fifth offensive coordinator in five seasons.
- But for as many questions as there are surrounding the Bucs, there are reasons for optimism, with Tampa Bay bringing on veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone and first-round edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr.
State of play: Bain enters the season with high expectations as the betting favorite for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year after an "explosive" training camp and an impressive preseason.
- Anzalone, former captain of the Detroit Lions, steps into the weakside linebacker role. He started 16 games for Detroit last season, finishing with 95 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and one interception.
- Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels climbed from fourth on the Bucs' quarterback depth chart to become Baker Mayfield's sole backup, beating out veteran Jake Browning for the job.
What they're saying: "We… missed the playoffs, didn't win the division," Mayfield told Athlon Sports. "Any time you finish the year like that and have a bad taste in your mouth, you want to get back to it as soon as possible and right the ship."
- "We have a good enough roster to be able to put the pieces together," he added.
Between the lines: Mayfield, who led the Bucs to the playoffs twice since joining the team, is entering the final year of his contract and is at an impasse with the team over an extension.
- He struggled down the stretch last season as injuries mounted, contributing to the Bucs' late collapse. A strong showing could earn Mayfield a major payday and secure his future in Tampa Bay.
What's next: The Bucs head to Cincinnati this weekend for their season opener. Sunday, 1pm on Fox.