This season, the NFL has been pleasantly surprised by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The squad was virtually written off and put in the rebuilding category after Tom Brady retired.

However, things started to turn around when Baker Mayfield signed as a free agency quarterback and Dave Canales was hired as the offensive coordinator.

At the time, Mayfield’s deal was viewed as little more than a chance for him to receive one last shot at starting. Mayfield has seized the chance to demonstrate his full potential and, in essence, disproved the notion that an injury and an unusual departure from the Cleveland Browns have damaged his reputation.

Mayfield A free agent “Stud” in coming years

The only time Mayfield wasn’t in Cleveland was because he was suffering an injury, but he now appears to be a winning quarterback once more. According to Fox Sports, this may make Mayfield a “stud” free agent in the following offseason.  Fox Sports wrote,

“The journeyman might have found a home in Tampa as Tom Brady’s successor. The former No. 1 overall pick has steadied the franchise with his efficient play and scrappy leadership skills,”

“Though he has never evolved into the playmaker that some envisioned, Mayfield’s experience and solid management skills have helped the Buccaneers climb to the top of the division with a handful of gritty wins,”

“If the veteran continues to take care of the ball and dazzle with some timely playmaking, the Buccaneers could steal the NFC South behind their new QB1.”

With an early bye week this year, it will be interesting to see how the Buccaneers handle the rest of the campaign. Mayfield might have a few strong offers when free agency rolls around if he can keep distributing the ball about and guide the Buccaneers to a winning record.