Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield made headlines with a pointed comment directed at newly named Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski. In a social media post, Mayfield stated, “Can’t wait to see you twice a year, Coach,” referencing the NFC South rivalry between their two teams.
The remark drew attention due to the previous working history between the two. Mayfield and Stefanski were together during Mayfield’s tenure with the Cleveland Browns, where Stefanski served as head coach. Their time together saw both success and challenges. In 2020, under Stefanski’s leadership, the Browns posted an 11-5 regular-season record and earned their first playoff win since 1994. Mayfield was the starting quarterback during that season.
However, the relationship became strained in the following year. Mayfield dealt with multiple injuries during the 2021 season, and the team’s offensive production declined. Speculation grew over internal disagreements, and the Browns later acquired quarterback Deshaun Watson, leading Mayfield to request a trade. He was eventually traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2022.
Mayfield has since revitalized his career with the Buccaneers, helping the team to a division title in the 2023 season, while Stefanski spent the 2024 and 2025 seasons continuing his role in Cleveland. The recent appointment of Stefanski as Atlanta’s head coach sets the stage for renewed familiarity and rivalry between the two.
Given both teams’ placement in the NFC South, Mayfield and Stefanski are set to face each other twice per season starting in 2026. While Mayfield’s comment appeared lighthearted, it adds a layer of anticipation to the upcoming matchups between the Falcons and the Buccaneers.
The NFC South has seen significant coaching changes and quarterback movement in recent years, and this latest development marks another storyline for fans to follow as preparations begin for the 2026 NFL season.
