Buccaneers’ Quarterback Baker Mayfield’s ranking in the NFL Top 100 took a significant hit entering the 2026 season, but the number does not tell the entire story.

After finishing No. 50 in the NFL Top 100 a year ago, Mayfield dropped to No. 77 this offseason. The decline is understandable after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers missed the playoffs with an 8-9 record in 2025.

However, the ranking drop also fails to account for everything Mayfield had to overcome during a disappointing second half of the season.

From a struggling offensive system to a long list of injuries around him, Mayfield’s 2025 season was impacted by circumstances beyond his control.

The 2025 season started with Mayfield looking like one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks.

The Buccaneers opened the year 6-2, and Mayfield was receiving early MVP consideration because of his aggressive playmaking and ability to lead the offense.

Then things changed.

Tampa Bay’s offense became inconsistent during the second half of the season, and Mayfield’s production declined along with it. That stretch ultimately shaped how many viewed his season and likely contributed heavily to his drop in the NFL Top 100 rankings.

But evaluating Mayfield’s season requires looking beyond the final numbers.

One of the biggest factors was the performance of the offense itself.

The Buccaneers struggled to find consistency under offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard, who was ultimately dismissed following the season. The lack of offensive rhythm made life more difficult for Mayfield, especially as opposing defenses adjusted.

Quarterbacks are often judged by results, but their success depends heavily on the environment around them.

A quarterback can only operate as efficiently as the protection, play-calling, and surrounding talent allow.

For Mayfield, those factors became increasingly difficult as the season progressed.

The offensive struggles were compounded by injuries throughout the roster.

The Buccaneers dealt with significant losses across the offense, limiting continuity and forcing younger players into larger roles.

The offensive line was constantly changing, with injuries impacting key players. The running game also lacked consistency, while the receiving group battled availability issues throughout the season.

Those changes forced Mayfield to carry more responsibility at the most important position on the field.

Despite those challenges, his teammates and opponents still recognized the qualities that make him valuable.

Even with his ranking falling 27 spots, Mayfield continued receiving praise from players around the league.

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough praised Mayfield’s competitiveness and leadership.

“I grew up watching what he did, just the swagger, the demeanor that he plays with,” Shough said. “His personality, I really resonate with it. Being able to go play the Bucs each year, you’re gonna go out there and compete. It kinda motivates you, obviously, to go up against him, someone you look up to.”

Houston Texans edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. also praised Mayfield after Tampa Bay’s close victory over Houston.

“I think he has one of the biggest hearts in the game,” Anderson said. “He just has that, ‘Man, whatever it takes to win this game, I’m gonna do it. I’m gonna put the team on my back, man.’ I have a ton of respect for him.”

That respect matters.

The NFL Top 100 is voted on by players, meaning Mayfield’s ranking reflects perception around the league. However, those same players still understand the difficulty of what he faced in 2025.

Mayfield’s No. 77 ranking is a reminder of how quickly opinions can change in the NFL.

A strong start followed by a difficult finish caused his stock to fall, but the circumstances surrounding that decline cannot be ignored.

With a new offensive direction, improved health, and more stability around him, Mayfield has the opportunity to prove that his 2025 ranking was a reflection of a difficult season rather than his true ability.

If the Buccaneers return to playoff contention in 2026, expect Mayfield’s name to climb back up the NFL Top 100.

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