Mayfield and Stefanski: A Rivalry Renewed
Baker Mayfield's journey from Cleveland to Tampa Bay has been anything but dull, and his past with former head coach Kevin Stefanski adds a compelling subplot to the NFC South drama. When Stefanski took the helm of the Atlanta Falcons, Mayfield's initial reaction was memorable. He famously quipped about waiting for a text from Stefanski when he was moved from the Browns, likening his exit to being "shipped off like a piece of garbage."
But time seems to have softened Mayfield's stance. In a recent chat with Sports Illustrated during the Super Bowl festivities, Mayfield downplayed any lingering animosity.
"There's stuff there, but it's not like it's beef," he remarked. "We've worked together, and anytime you know somebody, you want to beat them whether it's a good or bad relationship."
NFC South Showdown
With Stefanski now leading the Falcons, the stage is set for an intriguing twice-yearly matchup between him and Mayfield. This adds a new layer of intensity to the Bucs-Falcons rivalry, already one to watch in the NFC South.
Last season, the Buccaneers started strong with a 5-1 record but faltered, finishing 8-9 and missing the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Falcons ended on a high note, winning their last four games to also finish 8-9. As we look ahead to 2026, the division promises to be fiercely competitive.
The Mayfield-Stefanski storyline only enhances the allure of these clashes. Their history might not be the main event, but it certainly spices up the narrative, making Tampa Bay vs. Atlanta must-see TV.
More NFL Buzz
Stay tuned as the NFL offseason unfolds, with stories like Mayfield and Stefanski's rivalry adding depth and intrigue to the upcoming season. The NFC South is shaping up to be a battleground, and these matchups are sure to deliver plenty of fireworks.