Baker Mayfield Embraces Change and Seeks Continuity with Bucs Amid Coordinator Shuffle

ORLANDO, Fla. — The winds of change have swept through the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, especially after the recent coaching developments in the NFL. Quarterback Baker Mayfield, who has navigated through multiple offensive coordinators, expressed his desire for stability as the team adjusts to life without offensive coordinator Liam Coen, who accepted the head coaching position with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Early in the week, Coen reassured the Buccaneers that he intended to stay, leading to Mayfield and his teammates feeling secure in their offensive strategy. However, as news broke of Coen’s departure, Mayfield was left with mixed emotions. “I found out like the rest of us,” he shared during a recent Pro Bowl event. “It’s bittersweet — we’re happy for Liam but also felt the sudden loss.”

In 2023, Mayfield proved himself as an elite quarterback, throwing a career-high 28 touchdown passes. This success continued into 2024, with an impressive 41 touchdown passes that helped the Bucs clinch back-to-back NFC South titles. His remarkable performance earned him Pro Bowl selections in both years, showcasing his ability to adapt.

Despite the frequent turnovers in coaching staff, Mayfield remains optimistic. He’ll be working under his ninth offensive coordinator in just eight seasons, but this time it’s someone within the organization, Josh Grizzard, who has been promoted from pass game coordinator. “Continuity is key,” Mayfield stated. “We’re not overhauling the playbook, and that’s a huge advantage for the younger guys learning the system.”

Equally vital to this transition are the returning coaching staff members, including offensive line coach Kevin Carberry and assistant Brian Picucci. Their contributions have revitalized the run game, transforming it from last in the league to a respectable position of fourth in rushing yards per game in just a year.

Mayfield’s 4,500 passing yards ranked him third in the league, and with an impressive 71.4% completion rate, he showcased his skills, becoming one of only four NFL players to achieve over 4,000 passing yards, 40-plus touchdowns, and a completion percentage above 70% in a single season. The Bucs’ offense was among the top in the league, averaging 28.6 points per game, and second in touchdowns thrown.

As the team prepares for the upcoming 2025 season, Mayfield emphasizes the importance of building chemistry and understanding amongst teammates. “Communication is everything,” he asserted. “Grizzard was a key part of our game plan last year, especially during crucial plays. I'm excited for what’s next.”

The road ahead may be filled with challenges, but Baker Mayfield’s resilience and focus on continuity may just lead the Buccaneers back to the top, solidifying their place as a formidable force in the NFL.