Baker Mayfield reportedly uninterested in joining AFC team

Baker Mayfield is set to be one of the biggest names in free agency this year. The veteran quarterback is coming off a terrific season with the Buccaneers, resulting in an appearance in the NFC divisional round. 

After his impressive play with Tampa Bay, Mayfield is expected to draw much attention from teams looking to add a veteran quarterback. The New England Patriots were mentioned as potential candidates to land the former No. 1 overall pick, but according to a recent report, Mayfield doesn't share the same desire. 

"The Patriots' priority in free agency is landing a difference-making wide receiver, according to a team source. But that could prove to be difficult. They had planned on making a run at Buccaneers free agent-to-be wide receiver Mike Evans. But even before Evans agreed to a two-year contract Monday to stay in Tampa Bay, the receiver had no interest in coming to the Patriots, according to a league source. The same may be the case for his quarterback," Chad Graff of The Athletic reports. 

After a tumultuous season with Bill Belichick, the Patriots are starting a new era under former player Jerod Mayo. The young head coach is keen to make some noise and bring the Patriots to compete for important things again. 

However, the journey appears to be more difficult than expected. Mayfield is considered one of the best free agents this year, and more teams will try to lure him away from Tampa next week. 

The signal-caller is also expected to demand a big contract and won't give the Buccaneers a home discount this time. This might give hope to other teams to try to sign him this offseason, but after Mike Evans signed a new deal, Mayfield is also expected to return to Raymond James Stadium. 

As for the Patriots, they are in a privileged position ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. This year's class is full of talented quarterbacks, and they could get their man for the future next month.