TAMPA, Fla. — Baker Mayfield has rejuvenated his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and, in the process, has contributed to the development of coaching talent within the organization. His impressive performance in the 2023 season under offensive coordinator Dave Canales, who has now secured the head coaching position at the Carolina Panthers, showcases Mayfield’s ability to elevate those around him. Furthermore, his continued effectiveness under Liam Coen positions him as a leading candidate for upcoming coaching roles.
The Buccaneers currently hold a 9-7 record and need to secure a victory against the New Orleans Saints (5-11) in their final regular-season game to clinch their fourth consecutive NFC South title. With Mayfield and the Buccaneers’ offense firing on all cylinders, the team aims to extend its playoff run beyond the divisional round, where they were eliminated last season by the Detroit Lions.
Liam Coen, who has played a significant role in Mayfield’s resurgence, is likely to field interest from other NFL teams seeking new head coaches, like the Jets, Saints, and Bears, among others. However, Coen remains fixated on his current responsibilities with Tampa Bay, emphasizing the importance of staying present. “That was one of the best Sundays I’ve had in a long time,” he said, referring to a recent 48-14 victory over the Panthers. “At the end of the day, that stuff can wait a long time if it’s the right thing. For us to keep moving forward, we can wait a long time on that one.”
Similarly, last year Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson received several interview requests but chose to return to Detroit. Coen may consider a similar route this offseason—engaging in some interviews while ultimately deciding to remain in Tampa if a favorable opportunity doesn’t materialize.
“I do believe I’m ready,” Coen remarked regarding his coaching ambitions, acknowledging that while no one is ever fully prepared, he sees it as a dream. “Does that need to happen when I’m 39 years old and having probably the most fun of my life? No, that doesn’t mean that needs to occur right now. But yeah, that is the goal.” He’s keen to continue evolving with the Buccaneers for the time being.
During the current season, Mayfield has excelled, throwing for a total of 4,279 yards, amassing 39 touchdowns against 15 interceptions, and achieving a 107.6 passer rating. He has maintained a completion percentage of 71.7, placing him among the top five in single-season history. The Buccaneers currently rank third in total offense, third in passing yards, and fourth in rushing, averaging a remarkable 29.7 points per game.
“Great offensive coordinators always dial things up to the strengths of their players, and that’s what Liam has done,” Mayfield expressed. He acknowledged the adaptability Coen has shown in pivoting from an early emphasis on specific game strategies to better utilize the evolving strengths of the run game. “The great ones adjust, and Liam has done just that.”
Head coach Todd Bowles is on the brink of securing his third division title in three seasons, a feat accomplished with three different offensive coordinators. Following the 2022 season, Bowles dismissed Byron Leftwich, with whom he had won a Super Bowl alongside Tom Brady. Canales took over and effectively harnessed Mayfield’s abilities, marking a notable turnaround for a player who had experienced instability in previous seasons.
Coen had his own recent success as Kentucky’s offensive coordinator prior to reuniting with Mayfield from their time together in Los Angeles under Sean McVay. Bowles commended Coen’s meticulous approach, focused on refining gameplay strategies and ensuring clear communication between coaches and players, forming a coherent unit on the field.
At the heart of the Buccaneers’ resurgence is Mayfield, a former No. 1 overall NFL draft pick who was let go by the Browns when they traded for Deshaun Watson. If Mayfield continues to thrive, he could not only extend his career but also pave the way for his coaches to attain new heights, with all eyes firmly set on their objectives in Tampa Bay. Everything else can be discussed later.
