In a stunning turn of events, Baker Mayfield's decision to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a one-year, $4 million deal last March has paid off tremendously. The quarterback's outstanding performance during the 2023 season has earned him a well-deserved four-year contract worth up to $150 million.

Mayfield's deal, inspired by Derek Carr's contract with the New Orleans Saints, features a fully guaranteed amount of $40 million at signing. However, upon closer examination, Carr's contract reveals that it amounts to $100 million over three years, just like Mayfield's. This is because an additional $50 million in 2026 inflates the average yearly salary to $37.5 million.

The Buccaneers' commitment to Mayfield extends beyond just the base contract. With the inclusion of incentives, the total value of the deal can reach a staggering $115 million. Additionally, Mayfield's cap number for 2024 is set at $6.9 million, and he will receive $28.875 million in fully guaranteed roster bonuses, treated as signing bonuses for salary cap purposes.

It's worth noting that the contract includes automatic voiding clauses for the 2027 and 2028 contract years, strategically implemented to manage the salary cap. This prorates the $28.875 million bonus at $5.775 million annually through 2028.

Looking ahead, Mayfield's cap number for 2025 is set to jump to $35.775 million. However, if the Buccaneers were to release him in a conventional manner next year, there would be a significant dead money charge of $33.1 million. This is a consequence of $10 million of his $30 million 2025 base salary being fully guaranteed at signing.

To avoid this hefty penalty, any release would need to occur before the fifth day of the 2025 league year. At that point, an additional $10 million of the 2025 base salary, guaranteed for injury, becomes fully guaranteed.

Baker Mayfield's journey from a modest one-year deal to a lucrative long-term contract is a testament to his remarkable resurgence. After resurrecting his career with exceptional performances in the 2023 season, Mayfield's value skyrocketed, culminating in a significant payday with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

As the Buccaneers secure their quarterback for the foreseeable future, fans eagerly await Mayfield's continued success on the football field.