Leadership and accountability are a big part of being an NFL quarterback.
Those were two things some people didn’t always see in Baker Mayfield.
Countless controversies and media encounters stained his days with the Cleveland Browns, and there were reports that his demeanor rubbed people the wrong way.
That’s not the same player we’ve seen in Florida, and that was evident again after the loss to the Washington Commanders.
Talking to the media, the former No. 1 pick took the blame for the crucial loss (via Jenna Laine).
Baker Mayfield took the blame for the fumble today and didn’t mince words when he said that it “absolutely sucks”. But then you’ll hear him talk about how proud he is of this team and the way guys stepped up. I asked if he thought he could show that kindness to himself… pic.twitter.com/eRCsFjnMXV
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) January 13, 2025
More than that, he raved about his teammates and how hard they worked and fought throughout the course of the season.
While he acknowledged that it was hard to find any silver linings after such a tough loss, he was still proud of the job everybody did and how they responded during the campaign.
Mayfield proved to be worth every single penny this season.
While the season didn’t have the outcome they hoped for, his numbers were the best he’s ever had.
It also became evident that the team, the players, and even the coaches rallied behind him and his leadership.
On paper, the Buccaneers could’ve and should’ve won that game.
Still, the Commanders deserve all the credit in the world for how they neutralized their game plan and didn’t allow them to run their offense as they usually do.
It’s all about regrouping, getting back to full strength, and running it back next season.
NEXT: Todd Bowles Sends Clear Message About Baker Mayfield After Playoff Loss
