​Baker Mayfield has delayed contract extension negotiations to next offseason, allowing him to test free agency, but the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a tool to prevent that.Jeremy Fowler, a senior NFL writer for ESPN, believes Tampa Bay and Mayfield are “on a collision course” for the franchise tag. If he receives the franchise tag, he’d earn at least $47 million for one year, close to the $50 million requested in negotiations.Fowler has followed this saga closely. He’s previously reported the 31-year-old wanted more than two years in any scenario, which he wouldn’t receive under the franchise tag. It’s a good mechanism for the Buccaneers to buy more time for a respectable compromise. They have never paid a quarterback more than $25 million annually, including Tom Brady during the twilight of his career. It’s been unprecedented territory for the organization, but they’re willing to commit to Mayfield, just not long term.He feels he’s earned a long-term extension, and he’s voiced his concerns since the beginning of training camp. That’s ruffled some feathers in the front office. Mayfield helped Tampa Bay have a smooth transition since Brady retired. He’s led the team to the playoffs twice in three seasons, the Divisional Round in 2023 and the Wild Card in 2024.The right-handed signal-caller can say he’s had his best season in a Buccaneers uniform. Under offensive coordinator Liam Coen, Mayfield threw for 4,500 yards, 41 touchdowns and 16 interceptions, and added 378 yards and three touchdowns on 60 carries.Injuries prevented him from replicating similar success last season. He dealt with a sprained MCL and PCL with a bone bruise, a deep biceps tendon contusion and an AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder. Despite all those injuries, the eight-year veteran played all 17 games and threw for 3,693 yards, 26 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. The Buccaneers failed to make the playoffs, thanks to the Carolina Panthers holding a divisional tiebreaker.A franchise tag is a significant disadvantage to the fourth-year Buccaneer. If he has another injury-riddled season that affects his performance, the $50 million he wants over several seasons no longer seems appealing.In a way, he’s already taking a similar risk playing the final year without a new contract.While the saga is dominating offseason headlines, Mayfield is solely focused on playing to the best of his ability. He’s said his peace and has left contract extension negotiations for next offseason. Returning to the playoffs and winning the NFC South division are the team’s goals. The franchise tag is a last-ditch effort if the two parties remain far apart next year.