'Action Figure Baker'? Bucs' White Impressed with New Look

Baker Mayfield's resurgence in 2024 shifted the projected course for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers , finding themselves back in contention and competing in the NFC Divisional round.

Mayfield earned a bump of a three-year $100 million contract after proving himself and appears the leader under center for the Bucs into the next few seasons. That deal rewarded his work with the team, though it has not satisfied Tampa Bay's quarterback.

Mayfield has cut off a few pounds and rekindled the swagger that made him such a polarizing figure early in his career. How those changes translate into game action will be determined in due time, but his teammates have taken note.

Bucs running back Rachaad Whiten has praised the evolved look of his quarterback.

"Him coming in here just shaving weight and just looking good, looking more explosive, making more plays outside the pocket and stuff like that," White said on Sirius XM NFL Radio this week. "[He’s] been awesome in extending plays. I mean, he looks like an action figure."

While Mayfield's successes have been celebrated in Tampa Bay, there is perhaps more pressure this time around to build off the progress of last season. With the roster at hand, the expectation remains for the Bucs to return to playoff contention.

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In the past, the "explosive" and "extending plays" version of Mayfield directed to a style of reckless abandon that could be detrimental at the professional level.

But now, that confidence can be channeled into the smarter and polished product that has been showcased during his progression in Tampa Bay.

The commitment to improving his frame along with his craft should be a positive one. Mayfield, as evidenced in White's comments, has the backing of his team as well.

It all comes down to the output on the field Mayfield continuing to deliver on the belief his franchise has shown in him.