Baker Mayfield’s comeback story in Tampa Bay just got a surprising new fan, Colin Cowherd. Yeah, the same guy who once roasted Baker for being “reckless” and “immature” now wants America to be a little more like him. Funny how time changes things, right?

While addressing the MVP buzz around Mayfield, Cowherd didn’t hold back his praise. “Baker willed his team to a W… Baker Mayfield was the difference. There’s a quality that Baker Mayfield has that I wish everybody in America had. Not everything has to be perfect. He never plays the victim.” And Cowherd wasn’t done there.

He doubled down, saying, “Baker’s missing everything. He’s on the road. And he’s willing his team to win. That’s what a franchise quarterback is. That’s what an MVP looks like.” Those words hit differently. Especially when you realize Baker is pushing his way into a legit MVP conversation.

The current front-runners? Josh Allen tops the list, with Patrick Mahomes sitting right behind him, according to FD Sportsbook. What makes it even wilder is that Mayfield is outproducing Mahomes in key stats. Baker’s thrown for 1,539 yards, averaging 7.9 yards per attempt. He’s fourth in passing yards and has 12 touchdowns, the third-most in the league. For a player who was written off by half the league not long ago, that’s impressive.

At this point, it’s not just numbers. It’s about moments. Baker’s clutch drives and calm under pressure have given the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and their fans something real to believe in. So yeah, MVP calls for him aren’t stopping anytime soon.

Former HC keeps Baker Mayfield at top of MVP race

After taking down the San Francisco 49ers, the Buccaneers now sit at 5-1, leading the NFC South. That win considerably boosted Baker’s MVP stock. NFL.com columnist Jeffri Chadiha didn’t hold back, writing that no debate is needed to pick the MVP through six weeks. He called Mayfield the clear choice. And now, another big name is jumping on that train.

On ESPN’s Get Up, former head coach turned analyst Rex Ryan made his pick loud and clear. “It’s not even close. I mean, this guy is playing. I mean, it’s phenomenal,” Ryan said. “And the fact, let’s face it, at the biggest moments, he’s at his best. I mean, how many of these fourth-quarter comebacks are we gonna see?” That’s high praise from a man who’s coached some fierce competitors.

Even more impressive? He’s doing all this with half of his offense banged up. Mike Evans and Chris Godwin have both missed time, while wideout Emeka Egbuka, who ranks fourth in receiving yards, left Sunday’s game with a hamstring injury. Despite the injuries, and with running back Bucky Irving nursing a shoulder issue, Mayfield still delivered.

He completed 17 of 23 passes for 256 yards, two touchdowns, and zero picks against the 49ers. His passer rating sits at 108.5, sixth-best in the league. But more importantly, he’s thrown 12 touchdowns to just one interception this season. Sounds like an MVP, doesn’t it?