In a surprising transition for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tom Brady has been replaced by Baker Mayfield as the team’s quarterback. However, despite this change, there is still a sense of continuity within the team. Buccaneers defensive lineman Will Gholston recently spoke about this during an interview with FOX Sports Radio at the Super Bowl festivities.
Gholston, who played with Brady from 2020 to 2022 and won a Super Bowl with him, expressed his admiration for Mayfield. He described Mayfield as someone who is not afraid to step up and face challenges head-on. Gholston stated that it is easy to follow a leader like Mayfield because of his determination and fearlessness.
Interestingly, Gholston also drew a comparison between Brady and Mayfield. He mentioned that both quarterbacks possess a similar quality. Gholston stated that he would also be willing to stand alongside Brady, just like he would with Mayfield.
It is worth noting that Mayfield has now joined Brady as one of the few quarterbacks in Buccaneers history to achieve impressive stats. He is the only other quarterback besides Brady to record a season with over 4,000 passing yards, 25 or more passing touchdowns, and 10 or fewer interceptions.
This transition from Brady to Mayfield has brought a sense of continuity to the Buccaneers. Gholston’s comments highlight the similarities between the two quarterbacks and the respect he has for both of them. It will be interesting to see how Mayfield continues to lead the team and build upon the success achieved under Brady’s guidance.
Brady’s Incredible Legacy in Tampa Bay
In a stunning turn of events, Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback, has led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to an unprecedented level of success. With seven Super Bowl victories under his belt, Brady has shattered records and earned numerous accolades throughout his illustrious career. Perhaps most impressively, he has managed to instill a winning culture in Tampa Bay, a franchise that had been absent from the playoffs for a staggering 13 years.
During Brady’s tenure, the Buccaneers have made three consecutive playoff appearances and secured two NFC South titles. Even in the face of adversity, such as their lackluster 8-9 performance in the 2022 season, the team has managed to defy expectations. Many skeptics believed that the departure of Brady, who retired in February 2023, would spell disaster for the Buccaneers. Furthermore, the signing of Baker Mayfield as a free agent in March 2023 did little to inspire confidence.
Mayfield’s Path to Success
Baker Mayfield, the talented quarterback, faced his fair share of challenges in 2022. After being traded from the Cleveland Browns to the Carolina Panthers, he was ultimately released in December of that year. However, fate intervened, and Mayfield found himself filling in as the starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, as Matthew Stafford nursed an injury.
Despite the doubts surrounding him, Mayfield quickly earned the respect of his teammates in Tampa Bay. He managed to secure the starting position over Kyle Trask and proceeded to have a breakout season. Thanks to Mayfield’s leadership, the Buccaneers once again clinched the NFC South title and made it to the Divisional Round of the playoffs.
Gholston’s High Praise for Mayfield
One of Mayfield’s biggest supporters is William Gholston, a fellow teammate on the Buccaneers. Gholston spoke highly of Mayfield, describing him as one of the coolest individuals he has ever met. Gholston commended Mayfield’s down-to-earth nature, genuine personality, and unwavering competitiveness. In fact, Gholston expressed such admiration for Mayfield that he claimed he would willingly walk through a dark alley with him.
The Uncertain Future
As the 2024 NFL season looms, the fate of Mayfield and Gholston remains uncertain. Both players have the potential to become free agents in March, leaving their future with the Buccaneers hanging in the balance. Mayfield, in particular, is expected to command a hefty salary of $27.1 million per year, according to Spotrac. On the other hand, Gholston, who earned $2.26 million on a one-year contract this season, could potentially secure a similar deal for 2024.
Gholston’s Optimism for the Future
Although Gholston has primarily served as a backup, he remains optimistic about the Buccaneers’ future. He has been impressed by the performance of younger players such as Calijah Kancey and Logan Hall. Kancey has demonstrated his prowess with four sacks, while Hall has showcased his ability with two fumble recoveries. Gholston takes pride in witnessing these young talents translate their skills from practice to game day, knowing that he played a small role in their development.
In conclusion, Tom Brady’s impact on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers cannot be overstated. His leadership and skill have propelled the team to new heights, breaking longstanding playoff droughts and securing division titles. Baker Mayfield has also emerged as a key player, earning the respect of his teammates and leading the Buccaneers to continued success. As the future remains uncertain for both Mayfield and Gholston, only time will tell what lies ahead for this dynamic team.
According to the Source heavy.com