When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed former No.\u202f1 overall pick Baker\u202fMayfield in 2023, the NFL press and fans alike were quick to paint him with a broad brush of arrogance and diva\u2011like tendencies. The former Oklahoma Sooners star had already earned a reputation for being outspoken, and the media\u2019s narrative seemed to cement that image. But one of Mayfield\u2019s teammates, retired Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte\u202fDavid, has taken it upon himself to challenge that narrative and offer a more nuanced view of the quarterback\u2019s personality and work ethic.<\/p>\n
Lavonte David, who spent 13 seasons with the Buccaneers and helped the team win Super Bowl\u202fLV, joined Mayfield on the roster in his first season with Tampa Bay. In a recent interview with TMZ Sports, David spoke candidly about his initial expectations and how they evolved after spending time with the quarterback on the field and in the locker room.<\/p>\n
\u201cI expected him to be the cocky, diva type that the media has been saying,\u201d David admitted. \u201cBut he\u2019s nothing like that. He\u2019s a great teammate and a great friend. I\u2019m a fan of Baker, honestly.\u201d He went on to praise Mayfield\u2019s charisma and confidence, describing him as a \u201cgreat guy to be around.\u201d According to David, the quarterback\u2019s confidence is rooted in humility rather than ego.<\/p>\n
David\u2019s comments shed light on a side of Mayfield that many fans have missed. While the media often focuses on the quarterback\u2019s on\u2011field bravado, David highlights his off\u2011field humility. He noted that Mayfield\u2019s confidence is paired with a genuine desire to improve and a respect for teammates.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s a two\u2011time Pro Bowler, but he never lets that go to his head,\u201d David said. \u201cHe\u2019s always looking for ways to help the team win. He\u2019s a great leader.\u201d David also emphasized that Mayfield\u2019s swagger is a reflection of his confidence in his own abilities, not a sign of arrogance.<\/p>\n
In addition to his on\u2011field talent, David praised Mayfield\u2019s character. He said that the quarterback\u2019s presence in the locker room is uplifting, and that his \u201cswag\u201d is simply a natural extension of his personality. David believes that those who have spent time with Mayfield will see a different side of him than what the headlines suggest.<\/p>\n
Mayfield\u2019s move to Tampa Bay gave him the opportunity to showcase his true potential, according to David. He compared the quarterback\u2019s current role to his days with the Oklahoma Sooners, where Mayfield was known for his leadership and playmaking ability.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen he goes out there and carries the team on his back, it\u2019s infectious,\u201d David said. \u201cWe feed off that. We love to see him go. It gets us going.\u201d David\u2019s words highlight the importance of chemistry between a quarterback and his teammates. He believes that Mayfield\u2019s confidence and leadership help elevate the entire offense.<\/p>\n
David also pointed out that Mayfield\u2019s confidence is balanced by a strong work ethic. He said that Mayfield is always studying film, asking questions, and looking for ways to improve. This dedication, combined with his natural talent, makes him a valuable asset to the Buccaneers.<\/p>\n