TAMPA, Fla. – Baker Mayfield got a new deal, but that isn’t the only thing new with the Bucs starting signal caller. He’s having to learn a new offense under first-year offensive coordinator Liam Coen. Coen says Mayfield is picking it up fast.
“A calm confidence I think,” Coen said in describing Mayfield. “Yes, we are installing and teaching a new offense, but he (Mayfield) knows a lot of these things already. Him just taking it over. He has done a great job in the meeting rooms. Hey Man, make sure you’re here. That’s what we’re trying to establish. The confidence of throwing the football has been impressive thus far. We haven’t had a ton of balls hit the ground. He’s throwing it with a lot of confidence right now.”
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Last year’s coordinator, Dave Canales, left to take the head coaching position with the Carolina Panthers. Corn had a brief time with Mayfield in Los Angeles with the Rams but says he’s noticed Mayfield’s demeanor is one that Mayfield knows he’s the starter, so he can afford to make a mistake in practice, and he won’t be losing his job.
Last year, Mayfield competed against Kyle Trask to earn the right to be the starter. Coen says Mayfield knows it’s his team, his offense right now and he’s showing that with his decisions and play on the field. As far as the offense in general, Coen says it’s simple. The Bucs have to run it better.
“How do we take the next step from good to great,” Coen said. “Obviously, first and foremost, get better in the run game. These guys have totally bought in. Great energy, communicative on the field. Really just engaged. It’s been an absolute pleasure working with these guys.”
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Mayfield signed a three-year $100 million extension, and wide receiver Mike Evans inked a two-year $52 million contract. Wide receiver Chris Godwin is back in his normal position in the slot so it will come down to how well the offensive line can protect and break open holes for the running backs. It’s hard to judge now since they’re only working out in tee shirts and shorts.
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