The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are facing an unexpected quarterback battle as former No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield competes with Kyle Trask for the starting spot, hoping to eventually replace the legendary Tom Brady under center. While many would assume Mayfield to be the clear favorite, recent developments suggest that Trask is giving him a run for his money.
Buccaneers offensive coordinator, Dave Canales, confirmed the tightening competition during a recent interview. He expressed his excitement about both quarterbacks’ progress and how they’ve been performing during training camp. Initially, Mayfield had an edge due to his experience and smooth execution of the offense, but Trask quickly settled in and showcased his arm strength, quick decision-making, and ability to stretch the field.
CBS Sports Senior NFL Writer Pete Prisco also chimed in, noting the surprising nature of the quarterback competition in Tampa. During practice, Trask demonstrated his skills, catching Prisco’s attention, and leading to the conclusion that this battle is far from one-sided.
Kyle Trask, drafted in the second round as the 64th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, showcased his talent during his college career at Florida, leading the FBS in passing touchdowns with an impressive 43. However, his professional experience has been limited, attempting only nine passes in two seasons, completing three of them for a total of 23 yards. With Blaine Gabbert’s departure to the Kansas City Chiefs, Trask now has a genuine chance to prove himself.
On the other hand, Baker Mayfield’s career has seen ups and downs. He initially found success with the Cleveland Browns, leading them to their first playoff victory in decades. However, he was later traded to the Carolina Panthers, where things did not go as planned, leading him to request his release after a disappointing 1-5 record as the starter. Eventually, Mayfield landed with the Los Angeles Rams, where he had a mixed performance, going 1-3 in four starts. Despite this, he made headlines with a remarkable Week 14 comeback victory against the Las Vegas Raiders, showcasing his potential under pressure.
The quarterback battle is expected to unfold during the preseason games, providing both Mayfield and Trask with opportunities to prove themselves on the field. While Mayfield might have the upper hand in terms of experience, Trask’s determination and skill set could surprise many and lead to an intense competition.
In conclusion, the Buccaneers’ quarterback battle between Baker Mayfield and Kyle Trask has proven to be tighter than anticipated. As both players strive to earn the starting spot, the preseason games will be crucial in determining who ultimately takes the helm for Tampa Bay. Don’t overlook the potential of the 25-year-old Trask, as he aims to make a significant impact and secure his spot as the future leader of the team.