The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made a sizable commitment to quarterback Baker Mayfield this offseason, but could turn to one of the most accomplished veteran signal callers available on the open market as an insurance policy.

tampa bay buccaneers baker mayfield — Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield attempts a pass. Credit: ABC 4

Mayfield and the Buccaneers agreed to terms on a three-year contract worth $100 million, as one of the signature moves orchestrated by general manager Jason Licht, along with re-signing Mike Evans and making Antoine Winfield Jr. the highest-paid defensive back in the sport.

But, there is definitely value in a veteran backup quarterback, and Licht could look to sign one of the best available as the season approaches.

Is Ryan Tannehill a Fit for Tampa Bay Buccaneers?

Ryan Tannehill, after being replaced with Will Levis by the Tennessee Titans is looking for a home ahead of the 2024 campaign kicking off, and could prove to be a welcomed addition to the Buccaneers’ quarterback room, alongside Mayfield.

ESPN’s Matt Bowen put together a list of the ideal fits for the top remaining free agents, including Tannehill signing with the Buccaneers.

“My sense is Tannehill will wait for an opportunity to open up during camp,” Bowen writes for ESPN. “But if we are looking at potential team/scheme fits, then the Bucs work. Kyle Trask and John Wolford are the options on the depth chart behind starter Baker Mayfield as of now, and a healthy Tannehill would benefit from the expected heavy doses of play-action in the pass game under new coordinator Liam Coen.

“In 10 games played with the Titans last season, Tannehill completed 64.8% of his passes for 1,616 yards, 4 touchdown throws and 7 interceptions. Put Tampa Bay down as a team to watch with Tannehill this summer.”

Tannehill’s mobility and experience could make it a seamless transition if Mayfield goes down at some point during the season, and his veteran presence could benefit Trask’s development.