Tampa Bay Buccaneers Owner Joel Glazer Confirms Plans to Extend Four Key Players

Tampa Bay Buccaneers owner Joel Glazer has confirmed that the organization plans to move forward with contract extensions for four key players, pending successful negotiations. This decision reflects the Bucs’ commitment to maintaining a strong core as they continue to build for the future, particularly with an eye on Super Bowl contention in the 2026 season.

At the top of the list is quarterback Baker Mayfield, who is not eligible for a rookie extension but is a top candidate for an extension. Mayfield, who has been a strong performer and an MVP candidate early in the season, has played a crucial role in the Bucs' offensive resurgence. With his current contract set to expire in 2026 and a cap hit of $51.9 million, the Bucs are exploring options to restructure or extend his deal to free up cap space. Analysts predict a new deal could be worth $53-60 million AAV over four years, with the Bucs likely focusing on Mayfield’s continued performance and leadership.

Tight end Cade Otton is another priority for the Bucs. Otton, who is eligible for an extension after completing his rookie contract, has been a solid starter at tight end, contributing both in receiving and blocking. His chemistry with Mayfield has been a key asset for the offense, and with the Bucs looking to maintain depth at the tight end position, especially if Ko Kieft becomes a free agent, Otton’s extension is a natural move. Sources suggest a deal in the range of $8-12 million AAV if the extension is finalized.

Wide receiver Mike Evans, whose current two-year, $41 million extension (2024-2025) with $35 million guaranteed will expire after the 2025 season, is also a focal point for the Bucs. Evans will become an unrestricted free agent in the 2026 offseason. Despite his contract nearing its end, Evans has continued to be a vital part of the Bucs’ offensive lineup, and the team will likely look to extend his stay in Tampa Bay with a new deal before he hits the open market.

On the defensive side, defensive tackle Calijah Kancey, a first-round pick in 2023, is eligible for the fifth-year option, which must be decided by May 1, 2026. Kancey, who has been an elite interior pass rusher with high PFF grades, was activated from IR recently. The Bucs will look to either exercise the fifth-year option or negotiate a long-term extension that could save cap space while ensuring Kancey remains part of the team’s defensive core alongside Vita Vea. Spotrac and Pewter Report have ranked Kancey as one of the top extension candidates for 2026.

None of these contracts have been finalized, but all four players have been informed they are part of the Buccaneers’ future. Talks are expected to intensify as the offseason progresses.