Bucs' Lavonte David Reveals Baker Mayfield's Injury Battles in 2025

Retired linebacker sheds light on quarterback's struggles amid mounting physical issues

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:33pm

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A cubist, geometric illustration depicting a quarterback's throwing motion broken down into overlapping, angular shapes, representing the physical toll of injuries on an athlete's performance.Injuries can disrupt the delicate balance of a team's success, as seen in Baker Mayfield's struggles with the Buccaneers in 2025.Today in Tampa

In a candid interview, former Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David revealed that quarterback Baker Mayfield was dealing with a variety of injuries throughout the 2025 season, including issues with his oblique, shoulder, ankle, and knee. This provides crucial context for Mayfield's on-field struggles, as the physical toll took a significant toll on his performance despite an early-season MVP-caliber start.

Why it matters

Injuries can dramatically impact a quarterback's ability to perform at a high level, and Mayfield's case highlights how even a talented player can be derailed by the cumulative effects of physical ailments. This information is vital as the Buccaneers front office evaluates Mayfield's future and potential contract negotiations.

The details

According to David, Mayfield was battling a number of injuries that hampered his mobility and decision-making throughout the 2025 season. The turning point appeared to be a Week 7 loss to the Detroit Lions, where Mayfield was sacked four times, which likely exacerbated his existing physical issues. As the injuries mounted, the Buccaneers' offense struggled, and young, inexperienced players were forced into prominent roles, further compounding the team's challenges.

  • Mayfield started the 2025 season on a high note, with MVP whispers in the background.
  • The Buccaneers began the season 5-1 before falling to 8-9 by the end of the year.
  • The Week 7 loss to Detroit, where Mayfield was sacked four times, appears to be a key turning point in the season.

The players

Baker Mayfield

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' quarterback who struggled with injuries throughout the 2025 season.

Lavonte David

A recently retired linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who provided insight into Mayfield's injury battles.

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What they’re saying

“Mayfield was battling a myriad of injuries, from an oblique issue to shoulder, ankle, and knee problems.”

— Lavonte David, Former Buccaneers Linebacker

What’s next

The upcoming contract negotiations for Mayfield will be a key indicator of the Buccaneers' faith in his ability to bounce back from the injury-plagued 2025 season.

The takeaway

This case highlights how injuries can significantly impact a quarterback's performance, even for a talented player like Mayfield. As the Buccaneers evaluate their options, they must weigh Mayfield's potential against the physical toll he endured in 2025.