As Baker Mayfield enters his third season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the quarterback is focused on improving ball security after throwing 16 interceptions last year.
"Yeah, it's exciting knowing that we have the same system," Mayfield told reporters on Thursday. "The starters are back, same guys, chemistry continues to build. ... But, I'm more focused on the other stuff from last year. Sixteen interceptions, how can I elevate that."
Mayfield completed 71.4 percent of his passes in 2024 with 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns but was tied for the NFL lead in interceptions.
Despite those turnovers, the Buccaneers were able to make the playoffs, with Mayfield leading an offense anchored by star wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.
Mayfield then discussed the importance of helping the Bucs defense by improving field position following punts.
"And that in turn, helps the whole team out, helps the defense," he said. "When we punt it, we want to get them down deep and let them drive."
He added: "So, I'm more concerned about that specifically."
Mayfield is extra-motivated this year and focuses on addressing the mistakes and issues that plagued the team last year.
"Elite is the standard," he said. "We realized that we have had mid-season lulls. We have had to scratch late in the year to get into the playoffs. The mindset is to be hungry, be killers, and finish it out early."
The Buccaneers finished the 2024 regular season with a 10-7 record, winning the NFC South division. Next season, the team will aim to reduce losses overall, and for Mayfield, that effort begins with cutting down on interceptions.