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Baker Mayfield Takes Responsibility After Loss to the Panthers, While Also Thanking the Teammate Who Pulled Him Back Amid a Wave of Criticism

Tampa, Florida – December 22, 2025

The bitter 20–23 loss to the Carolina Panthers pushed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers into a difficult position in the playoff race. When the final whistle sounded, all eyes quickly turned to Baker Mayfield — the quarterback who made the decisive mistake in the final seconds. Amid a fierce wave of criticism, the veteran quarterback chose to confront it head-on rather than shy away.

Baker Mayfield bluntly explains what happened on game-sealing INT against  Panthers

After the game, Mayfield offered no excuses. “Not the coaches, not my teammates — it’s on me. In that moment, when the ball was in my hands, I knew I had to be better for the team — and I wasn’t. That hurts more than any criticism, because the people who believe in me deserved better.” It was a brief but blunt statement, reflecting the leadership mindset the Buccaneers have trusted for the past three seasons.

The pressure was even heavier given that the loss came against the Panthers — the same team that released Mayfield midway through the 2022 season. After a start to the year that had Tampa Bay looking like a strong NFC South contender, this stumble made their playoff hopes far more fragile. But for Mayfield, the most painful part wasn’t the outside noise — it was the feeling of letting the group down at the most critical moment.

In the middle of those heavy hours, one teammate helped pull Mayfield back up: Mike Evans. “Mike came over and told me we’re still here, still fighting together,” Mayfield shared. “When you feel like you’re about to fall apart, having someone like that beside you means more than any criticism or any stat line.” Evans’ quiet presence became a timely emotional anchor.

Inside the Buccaneers’ locker room, the message wasn’t blame — it was unity. “We win together and we lose together,” Mayfield added. “I know I have to be better, and I will be — for this team, for the people who have always stood by me.” The loss to the Panthers may have damaged Tampa Bay’s playoff chances, but the way Baker Mayfield accepted responsibility and honored his teammates showed exactly why the Buccaneers still believe he is the leader to guide them through adversity.

BREAKING: Chiefs Among Top Landing Spots for Former $141 Million Future Hall of Fame Pass Rusher
Kansas City, Missouri – January 2026 Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly one of the top landing spots for Khalil Mack, a former $141 million edge rusher, as he is set to hit free agency in the spring. The 34-year-old player, widely regarded as a future Hall of Famer, is expected to be a top target for teams looking to add a veteran pass rusher to their roster, and the Chiefs could be a perfect fit. After spending the past few years with the Los Angeles Chargers, Mack had a solid 2025 season, recording 5.5 sacks and 39 quarterback pressures. While Mack may not be the dominant force he once was, he remains a top-tier pass rusher and a leader with invaluable experience, potentially providing a significant boost to the Chiefs' defense, which is already formidable. According to Zachary Pereles from CBS Sports, the Chiefs could be a leading contender for Mack’s services. “Mack would be a perfect addition to Kansas City, a team that’s already stacked on offense but could use another strong presence on defense. The Chiefs have the salary cap flexibility to bring in a veteran like Mack without making a major financial commitment, making him an ideal fit for their Super Bowl aspirations,” Pereles said. The Chiefs have established themselves as one of the NFL's elite teams, particularly on offense, but adding a veteran presence like Mack could provide that extra edge needed on defense. His leadership and ability to disrupt quarterbacks would be a valuable asset as Kansas City pushes for another Super Bowl title. However, the Chiefs won’t be the only team competing for Mack’s services. Other teams like the Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, and Carolina Panthers are also interested. The Bears and Bengals have specific defensive needs, while the Panthers have multiple positions to fill on their defense. “Chiefs is an organization with a rich history and a bright future. They have an incredible offense, but I know I can help elevate their defense to the next level. I want to be part of something special and bring that championship mentality to a team that’s already so close to greatness. If I’m given the chance, I will do everything in my power to help the Chiefs win it all,” Mack shared. For Mack, the final decision will depend on the role he’s offered and which team is best positioned to contend for a Super Bowl in the coming years. But as the Chiefs continue their pursuit of another championship, they remain one of the most attractive landing spots for this veteran pass rusher.