2025 Buccaneers Quarterbacks: State of the Team Analysis

In 2025, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced challenges within their quarterback position, resulting in a disappointing season. The team finished with an 8-9 record, marking the end of their NFC South title run, as the Carolina Panthers took the lead in the division.

2025 Buccaneers Quarterbacks: Performance Overview

Quarterback Baker Mayfield led the team, completing 343 of 543 passes for 3,693 yards, with 26 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. His strong start saw him dominate early in the season, including a notable performance in a 38-35 victory against the Seattle Seahawks in Week Five.

Baker Mayfield’s Highlights

• Completed 29 of 33 passes (87.9%) for 379 yards and two touchdowns.
• Achieved a passer rating of 134.7 in that game.
• Ranked first in the NFL for his completion percentage and yards per attempt (11.5) that week.
• Set a Buccaneers single-game record for completion percentage.
• Finished tied for third in touchdown passes (10) through Week Five.

Additionally, Mayfield rushed for a career-high of 382 yards during the season. He was notable for his ability to extend drives and demonstrated strong improvisation skills on the field. His efforts also placed him among the top quarterbacks in both rushing yards and efficiency, underlining his role in the offense.

Injury Concerns

Despite his strong season, Mayfield suffered a left shoulder injury during the Week 12 game against the Los Angeles Rams, leading to his exit from the contest. Teddy Bridgewater replaced him and completed eight passes for 62 yards. The Buccaneers had signed Bridgewater to a one-year contract in August, following his time with the Detroit Lions.

Other Quarterback Options

Connor Bazelak, who spent most of the season inactive, was activated for the Week Eight matchup against the New Orleans Saints due to injuries to both Mayfield and Bridgewater. Bazelak, an undrafted free agent who previously played college football at Bowling Green, Missouri, and Indiana, provided depth as a third option for the Bucs.

2026 Outlook

Baker Mayfield is under contract with the Buccaneers for another season, indicating he will continue as the starting quarterback in 2026. However, the team faces decisions regarding the backup role as Bridgewater enters free agency in March.

Throughout the 2025 season, the Buccaneers demonstrated both potential and challenges at the quarterback position, setting the stage for critical decisions moving forward.