The Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Battle: Baker Mayfield or Kyle Trask

The upcoming 2023 season for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is ripe with uncertainty, particularly in the quarterback role. Two quarterbacks, Baker Mayfield and Kyle Trask, are competing for the starting position. This article will delve into the credentials and current climates of both players, providing a thorough analysis of who stands the best chance to win this crucial starting QB competition.

Mayfield and Trask's NFL Backgrounds

When it comes to experience and track record, Baker Mayfield, a 2018 first-round pick, has a solid foundation. His career has seen ups and downs, but he has shown promise, particularly in his rookie season with the Cleveland Browns in 2018. Mayfield had consecutive standout performances in 2018 and 2020, contributing significantly to the Browns’ resurgence and making them a more competitive force in the NFL. His inconsistency in recent seasons is noteworthy but doesn’t negate his overall strengths.

On the other hand, Kyle Trask, a 2021 second-round pick, has faced constant scrutiny due to his inexperience and underwhelming performance in his rookie year. Trask struggled to prove himself, failing to start a single game and completing only 33.3 percent of his 9 pass attempts for 23 yards. His low completion rate of 33.3 percent and passer rating of 42.4 in a single game underscore the significant gap between his performance and expectations.

Training Camp and Offseason Reps

This year’s training camp presents a unique opportunity for both Mayfield and Trask, as they are starting from a clean slate. The Buccaneers have hired a new offensive coordinator, Mark Dronker, who has never worked with either player. Both quarterbacks will have an equal amount of first-team reps, giving them a fair playing field. However, the stark difference in their performances and merits ultimately favors Mayfield.

Baker Mayfield's Strengths: 5 years of starting experience Consistent in his best seasons with the Cleveland Browns Contributed to the Browns' first playoff win in 2020

Kyle Trask's Weaknesses: No starting experience in the NFL Low completion rate (33.3%) and passer rating (42.4) Failing to outperform Blaine Gabbert, a backup, in training camps

Coaching and Team Dynamics

While the Buccaneers' coaching staff could theoretically favor Mayfield, the decision ultimately hinges on performance on the field. The coaching staff’s evaluation during the offseason and training camp will be crucial in determining the starting quarterback. Mayfield’s consistent performance and past contributions to the Browns make him the more reliable choice.

The Bucs’ cap situation this offseason was a significant factor in the decision to give Trask a shot. However, Trask’s failure to outperform Gabbert and his inexperience with the new playbook suggest that he is not the right fit for the starting job. Trask will need to perform significantly better in the upcoming training camp and preseason games to prove his worth.

Conclusion

Based on the current status and performance of both quarterbacks, it appears highly likely that Baker Mayfield will be the starting quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2023 season. The chances of him winning the starting gig are around 80%, while Kyle Trask’s chances are around 20%. Mayfield’s experience, past performance, and potential for a comeback make him the more likely candidate to lead the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the upcoming season.