Baker Mayfield continues to earn recognition among NFL's best QB's

Baker Mayfield may not always receive the same level of recognition as the NFL's elite quarterbacks, but ESPN's latest quarterback trait rankings provide another reminder of just how talented the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' starter has become. In Dan Orlovsky's 2026 rankings, Mayfield landed inside the top 10 in multiple categories, including sixth in arm strength, eighth in rushing ability and 10th in second reaction ability. The arm strength ranking is particularly notable. Mayfield ranked sixth in the league, ahead of quarterbacks such as Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Dak Prescott. That ranking speaks to an element of Mayfield's game that can sometimes get overlooked because of his reputation as a fiery, competitive quarterback. His ability to make plays outside of structure also received recognition. Mayfield ranked 10th in second reaction ability, showing that his value isn't limited to what he can do from a clean pocket. When plays break down, he has become increasingly comfortable extending plays and finding opportunities downfield. Mayfield was also eighth among quarterbacks in rushing ability, another area that has become a useful part of his game in Tampa Bay. With Tampa Bay replacing several key pieces from last season and relying on younger players in important roles, Mayfield's ability to create plays when things don't go according to plan could be one of the team's biggest advantages. He also enters the season with plenty to prove. Mayfield is heading into an important year in Tampa Bay, and his performance could have significant implications for the Buccaneers' future at the position and for his next contract, as he is playing on the final year of his 3-year $100 million deal. Now Mayfield will have the opportunity to turn those traits into another productive season and show that his overall standing among NFL quarterbacks deserves to be even higher, as well as his next check. This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Baker Mayfield continues to earn recognition among NFL's best QB's