IndiaAIFounders — Skip Bayless Takes Issue With Major ESPN Top 100 Snub

Skip Bayless took issue with one of the most notable omissions from ESPN’s Top 100 player rankings ahead of the 2026 NFL season. The longtime sports commentator made his feelings clear after Baker Mayfield was left outside the list despite another productive season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Mayfield’s absence stood out because he has continued to rebuild his reputation since arriving in Tampa Bay. After reviving his career with the Buccaneers, the veteran quarterback has established himself as one of the league’s more reliable offensive leaders and has helped keep the franchise competitive.

Feb 1, 2026; Tampa Bay, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield walks on the field prior to the 2026 Stadium Series ice hockey game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Boston Bruins at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

The Top 100 rankings are shaped by evaluations from league executives, coaches and scouts, making every major omission a subject of debate. Bayless viewed Mayfield’s exclusion as particularly difficult to justify given the quarterback’s recent production and his ability to succeed in an increasingly competitive NFC.

Mayfield has spent much of his career responding to skepticism, beginning with questions about his size and continuing through his departure from the Cleveland Browns. His path eventually included stops with the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams before he found stability and a long-term opportunity in Tampa Bay.

Skip Bayless Reacts to Tampa Bay Buccaneers Star Baker Mayfield’s ESPN Top 100 SnubJan 3, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws a pass against the Carolina Panthers in the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Bayless shared his thoughts about Mayfield’s exclusion in ESPN’s list of top 100 players. This can be seen in a post he made on his official X account.

It is inconceivable to me that Baker Mayfield did not make ESPN’s Top 100 list. He was banged up last yr playing for a banged up team! He made late-game miracles in 3 early-season games! But this snub – and no new contract – will make him highly motivated. Beware Baker’s Bucs.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) September 1, 2026

The Buccaneers quarterback has since turned that opportunity into one of the strongest stretches of his professional career. His recent success has changed the perception of a player once viewed as a potential disappointment and placed him back among the quarterbacks capable of carrying an offense.

The latest snub could provide Mayfield with another source of motivation as the 2026 season approaches. Whether the rankings accurately reflect his standing around the league remains open for debate, but Bayless clearly believes leaving the Buccaneers quarterback out of the Top 100 was a mistake that deserves far more attention.