Baker Mayfield responds to coach's call for better self-protection

Baker Mayfield addressed concerns regarding his need to protect himself from hits, responding emphatically that it is a non-issue. His coach, Todd Bowles, expressed a desire for Mayfield to avoid unnecessary contact on the field. Mayfield has started all 17 games in his three seasons with the Buccaneers. Despite his durability, there are questions about the impact of taking hits on his overall performance, particularly as the team's play declined last season's second half. Mayfield's comments came during a media session on June 17, 2026.

• 8:04 AMYahoo Sports — Baker Mayfield pushes back on talk that he needs to do more to protect himself from hits