Baker Mayfield’s competitive streak was on full display during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ victory over the Seattle Seahawks, and it started before kickoff.
When a Seahawks fan began heckling him near the sideline, Mayfield didn’t back down; he fired right back. Hours later, he had the final say on the scoreboard.
Completing 29 of 33 passes for 379 yards and two touchdowns, Mayfield led the Buccaneers to a hard-fought win that kept their strong start to the season alive.
After the game, he circled back to that same fan to get the last laugh, a moment that reflected both his edge and confidence.
The win was another sign that Mayfield’s fire still burns as bright as ever, but now with control and purpose. He’s driven Tampa Bay to a 4–1 record, proving his leadership and fueling talk of an early MVP campaign.
Mayfield’s edge fuels Tampa Bay’s rise
On Wednesday, Mayfield described the exchange with the fan as “pretty fun.” When a reporter later asked if he needs to be “pissed off” to perform at his best, he grinned and replied,
“What are you saying?”
That playful competitiveness has become part of what defines him in Tampa Bay. Between trading words with a Seahawks supporter, standing up to C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and leading multiple game-winning drives, Mayfield’s energy has become contagious in the Buccaneers locker room.
He acknowledged that this fiery side wasn’t always appreciated earlier in his career.
“I told you guys I try and not get too high, not too low,” he said. “Early on in my career it's looked as ‘cocky, immature.’ Now it’s ‘moxie’ and ‘he’s a dog.’ Same s**t different day. As long as you play well, they change the narrative, but you’ve just gotta be yourself, and I’ve always been like that.”
Mayfield also reflected on his path to Tampa Bay after being traded by the Browns, released by the Panthers, and not re-signed by the Rams. Each setback, he said, shaped him into the player and leader he is now.
The Buccaneers have fully embraced that version of Mayfield, whose attitude has kept the team competitive since Tom Brady’s retirement and helped them to two straight playoff appearances.
Now, with Tampa Bay sitting at 4–1 and Mayfield posting one of his most efficient starts yet, it’s clear that his fire, once questioned, is the spark that keeps the Buccaneers burning.