Trent Dilfer

Baker Mayfield's a different beast entirely—a dual-threat modern QB with arm talent Dilfer never possessed. Mayfield's already eclipsed Dilfer's career passing yards and has the mobility to escape collapsing pockets. Dilfer was a game-manager who won a Super Bowl through defense and clutch moments; Mayfield's asked to carry the load offensively. Both wore the Bucs uniform, but they're operating in completely different eras.

Nope, Dilfer never made Canton. Despite winning a Super Bowl XXXV and earning Pro Bowl honors in 1997, his Hall of Fame case never gained traction. The voting committee tends to favor volume stats and sustained excellence—Dilfer's 20,518 career passing yards and 113 TDs, while respectable, didn't quite reach that threshold.

Dilfer's back where his coaching magic first sparked. After a rough 9–21 stint at UAB that ended in October 2025, he's returned as head coach at Lipscomb Academy in Nashville, the private school he transformed into a state power from 2019 to 2022. It's a full-circle homecoming for the former ESPN analyst.

Modern rules would've been Dilfer's playground. The emphasis on passing, reduced defensive contact, and emphasis on quick releases would've elevated his game considerably. He'd likely post better numbers in today's pass-happy NFL, though his lack of mobility would still be exposed against elite pass rushers. He'd be a solid game-manager in this era—think Kirk Cousins with better clutch credentials.

Shaun King edges Dilfer in the Buccaneers QB pecking order, and the numbers back it up—King's 30.98 passer rating beats Dilfer's 28.15. King had the stronger arm and mobility, while Dilfer was the steadier decision-maker. Both were bridge QBs in Tampa Bay's timeline, though neither became the franchise cornerstone the organization hoped for.