Tampa Bay Buccaneers

A Baker needs dough to do his job ... and Joe Haden says that's the case for Tampa Bay's quarterback as well -- 'cause he tells TMZ Sports he thinks Baker Mayfield deserves $25-30 million a year!!

The Buccaneers signal caller tops the list of available free agents this offseason ... and many are expecting the former No. 1 overall pick to get a big payday -- and staying put in Tampa seems like a strong possibility.

Haden -- who spent several seasons with the Cleveland Browns, just like Bake -- is all for Mayfield getting money thrown at him ... telling us it's hard to come by a quarterback that has playoff experience.

"I think Baker Mayfield should get a contract, for sure," Haden -- a three-time Pro Bowler said.

"Baker, 25-30 million dollars a year, 100% to take a team to the playoffs. I think give him some dough."

Of course, it hasn't always been sunshine and rainbows for Baker -- he fought through some injuries and got shipped out of Cleveland when the Browns pursued Deshaun Watson, despite leading them to their first playoff victory in forever just one season prior.

He bounced around to two other teams before landing with the Bucs ... and Haden thinks all his struggles are now behind him.

"You leading two different teams, two different organizations to the playoffs, you worth some dough."

Bill Belichick will be back on an NFL sideline -- after he gets some much-deserved R&R -- according to one of the best players to ever suit up for the legendary Patriots coach, Rob Gronkowski!

TMZ Sports caught up with the future Hall of Fame tight end at his epic Gronk Beach Super Bowl party at Encore Beach Club at the Wynn in Las Vegas, and we asked Rob about BB's future.

"I think it's great he's going to take a year off," Rob told us, adding, "He needs it. he deserves it. And I think he's going to come back next year with some vengeance!"

Of course, after winning 6 SBs in New England, Bill mutually parted ways with the Pats this off-season, and while many around the league expected he'd get a job straight away, it didn't happen.

It's clear Gronk believes his former coach ain't done yet -- he will be back -- and he may be reunited with the superstar TE ... err, WR?

"I'm gonna play for him. I'm gonna be a wide receiver," Gronk JOKED ... "I don't know who he's gonna coach for, but I'm gonna play wideout."

That part's a pipe dream ... Bill coaching a team isn't.

Adding to the likelihood of a return, Belichick's only 15 wins away from becoming the all-time NFL total wins leader as a coach ... which counts regular season and playoff games.

There's much more with Gronk ... who alongside TMZ Sports' own Mojo Muhtadi went absolutely WILD at the party Saturday afternoon.

Tom Brady has a new team -- the seven-time Super Bowl champ's "TB12" and "Brady Brand" businesses are merging with sportswear company NoBull.

46-year-old Brady announced the big move on Tuesday ... which makes him the second-largest NoBull shareholder behind friend and BodyArmor founder Mike Repole, who joined the company in 2023.

The plan is to make NoBull -- a popular brand in the CrossFit community -- a one-stop shop for all things fitness ... from shoes to clothes and nutrition.

According to reports, the company will keep the NoBull branding, but Brady's name and image will be used in some capacity.

Brady spoke about the news on Instagram ... saying, "I’m proud to announce that today, @tb12sports and @bradybrand are merging with @nobull, forming one complete wellness company that at its core, will help people become the best version of themselves."

"We’re going to push harder than ever to help EVERYONE find the path to success on their own journey," he added. "The goal for us is massive growth that will change the game in training and nutrition for the world. There’s no limit on how many people we can impact and that’s what I’m most excited about."

Brady also gave a shoutout to his staff at TB12 and 'Brady' ... saying their hard-working mentality will roll over into the new venture.

Tom Brady was apparently ready to get back on the gridiron not long after announcing his retirement (again) this year ... now revealing he damn near put on his shoulder pads again.

The retired QB and the G.O.A.T. of football made the shocking confession in an end-of-year IG post that featured a collection of photos of him, his kids and other loved ones in various settings throughout 2023 ... all of which looks to be quality time well-spent with family.

He writes, "Looking back on 2023 grateful for every moment. Cherishing the highs, learning from the lows, and looking forward to what’s coming next. I’m blessed to have family and friends filled with so much love, joy, and compassion surrounding me."

TB12 goes on to say that he recommends everyone connect with the people they love as much as possible, as they're all that matters at the end of the day.

He then ends with this ... "PS: The only downside to 2023 was when I was about to unretire in May and my friends threw a surprise retirement party. Kind of forced my hand."

Sounds like he's serious ... which, if true, then it's absolutely nuts -- especially when you consider he already faked retired the year prior, only to undo it and go for another season.

This also seems to prove that he was somewhat BS'ing when he claimed a report saying this exact thing could possibly happen was "fake news." As it turns out, there was in fact some truth to it ... but in the end, Tom obviously decided to stay retired for good.

Of course, he's got that big FOX Sports broadcasting job for him on the horizon -- which, by all accounts, he's been vigorously prepping for next season. Still, the dude can't seem to stay away from football -- as a matter of fact, he's been critical of the state of the game lately.

Derrick Ward is now facing some serious time behind bars after his alleged robbery spree ... 'cause TMZ Sports has learned he's just been hit with FIVE felony charges in the case.

According to court records, prosecutors levied the counts against the Super Bowl champion on Wednesday -- just two days after he was arrested.

The records show all five charges against Ward were second-degree robbery.

We broke the story, the ex-New York Giants tailback was thrown in jail on Monday afternoon following allegations he used force and fear to rob establishments in the Los Angeles area, including gas stations.

Jail records show as of Thursday morning, he still has not been released from police custody.

Ward played in the NFL from 2004 to 2011 -- helping New York beat Tom Brady's undefeated Patriots in SB XLII -- and he had such a fine career, he at one point signed a $17 million contract with the Buccaneers.

Baker Mayfield is gonna be a girl dad ... the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback and his wife just announced they're pregnant and are expecting their daughter to arrive in April 2024!

Mayfield's wife, Emily, shared the amazing news on Monday via Instagram with a bunch of pics from a photoshoot, including one of her holding a sonogram.

This is the couple's first child together.

"We’ve been hiding a little something……..🤫👀," Emily said in the IG caption.

"But we are THRILLED to share that baby girl Mayfield will be joining our crazy crew in early April 2024!"

Baker and Emily's 1.5-plus million combined IG followers were thrilled over the announcement ... including Patrick Mahomes' wife, Brittany, who left a comment, "Yayyyy!!! 😍 Congrats guys!!!💕💖."

Travis Kelce also dropped a comment on the photo, writing, "Ayyyeee!! Congrats you guys!"

Mayfield and Emily first met back in 2017 when Baker was playing college football at Oklahoma. Six months after meeting, Mayfield proposed ... and they tied the knot in 2019.

"These last few years we have grown in so many ways," Emily said on their four-year anniversary this July, "and I am SO proud of where we are in our marriage."

The announcement comes less than 24 hours after Mayfield threw for 202 yards and scored one touchdown in the Bucs' 21-18 win over the Carolina Panthers.

Tom Brady's jersey from his final NFL game is about to hit the auction block ... and it's about to be in the hands of someone VERY rich -- 'cause it could sell for up to $2.5 MILLION!!!

TMZ Sports has learned ... the iconic piece of Buccaneers gear will be available next month as part of RM Sotheby's and Wynn's Official Auction of the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix.

The white No. 12 threads are from Brady's last game on January 16, 2023 ... when the Bucs faced the Dallas Cowboys in a Wild Card playoff matchup on Monday Night Football.

Brady had 351 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in the contest ... falling to Dallas, 31-14 and ending his stellar career.

Officials say the item could potentially become the most valuable game-worn jersey EVER ... passing Joe Montana’s San Francisco 49ers uni he wore in Super Bowl XIX and Super Bowl XXIII, which came with a $1.2 million price tag earlier this year.

Sotheby’s Head of Streetwear & Modern Collectables Brahm Wachter spoke about the rare piece of memorabilia ... saying, "There are only a few athletes who are universally accepted as the greatest in their sport -- Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, Muhammed Ali, Wayne Gretzky, Babe Ruth."

"For the National Football League, it’s Tom Brady. Worn at the very last game of his tenured career, this historic shirt is a tangible reminder of Brady’s unparalleled legacy, and as such, is arguably the most coveted NFL jersey to ever come to auction."

Shaq Barrett's first career touchdown was an emotional one ... as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker dedicated the moment to his daughter who drowned earlier this year.

The two-time Pro Bowler helped secure the Bucs' victory over the Chicago Bears on Sunday ... when he intercepted Justin Fields' pass and reached the end zone en route to the 27-17 win.

After the win, Barrett said his 2-year-old daughter's passing has inspired him to push even harder this season ... and he paid tribute to her as he spoke with reporters.

"I always played for my family already, but then having, like, that extra incentive and making me want to go a little harder for her, it never stops," the 30-year-old said during the post-game press conference.

"It's always going to suck but at least I’m able to shine some spotlight on her a little bit."

Barrett added he believed the moment was "divine intervention" ... and that God has something in store for his family.

"He just setting us up for something. Can't say better because I don't know what can be better than having my baby girl here but he is setting us up for something that we need."

"I'm just ready for it. I'm waiting for it and I'ma believe in his plan for sure."

As we previously reported, Barrett's daughter, Arrayah, drowned in their backyard pool on April 30. Since the tragedy, the family has installed devices around the home to prevent another accident ... and launched a foundation in her name that will educate parents on water safety.

Sólo tenía 36 años.

El agente de Williams, Hadley Engelhard de Enter Sports Management, confirmó la noticia diciendo que el nativo de Nueva York murió el martes por la mañana.

"Se le echará de menos", dijo Engelhard en un comunicado. "Luchó duro toda su vida. Oraciones a su familia".

Como informamos anteriormente, Williams fue colocado en soporte vital en Florida después de que se lesionó haciendo trabajos eléctricos en un sitio de construcción. La semana pasada, Williams luchó por su vida "casi sin responder", según miembros de su familia.

Williams, que destacó en Syracuse, fue elegido en la cuarta ronda del Draft de la NFL de 2010. Tuvo una primera temporada estelar para los Bucs, terminando segundo en la consideración de Novato Ofensivo del Año.

Mike jugó cuatro temporadas con Tampa Bay y tuvo breves temporadas con los Bills y los Chiefs.

Registró 3.089 yardas de recepción y 26 touchdowns a lo largo de su carrera.

Los Bucs emitieron un comunicado sobre el fallecimiento de Williams que decía: "Nos entristece enterarnos de la muerte prematura de Mike Williams, quien ha dejado a nuestra organización, a sus ex compañeros de equipo y a los aficionados con el corazón roto".

"Enviamos nuestras más profundas condolencias a su familia y seres queridos mientras lloran esta tragedia".

Mike Williams -- a former NFL receiver who played for the Buccaneers and Bills -- has passed away following a tragic accident at a construction site.

He was only 36 years old.

Williams' agent, Hadley Engelhard of Enter Sports Management, confirmed the news ... saying the New York native died Tuesday morning.

"He will be missed," Engelhard said in a statement. "He fought hard his whole life. Prayers to his family."

As we previously reported, Williams was placed on life support in Florida after he was injured doing electrical work at a construction site. Williams was "mostly non-responsive" as he fought for his life last week, according to family members.

Williams -- a standout at Syracuse -- was selected in the 4th round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He had a stellar first season for the Bucs, finishing second in Offensive Rookie of the Year consideration.

Mike went on to play four seasons with Tampa Bay, and had short stints with the Bills and Chiefs.

He logged 3,089 receiving yards and 26 touchdowns over the course of his career.

The Bucs released a statement on Williams' passing ... saying, "We are saddened to hear of the untimely death of Mike Williams, which has left our organization, his former teammates and fans with heavy hearts."

"We send our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones as they mourn this tragedy."

Former NFL receiver Mike Williams -- the Offensive Rookie of the Year runner-up in 2010 -- has died following a recent accident at a construction site.

According to a GoFundMe page set up by Williams' family, the ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneers wideout suffered a "massive head injury" a few days ago when a steel beam fell on him ... causing "complete paralysis in his right arm as well as his lower body from the waist down."

Sadly, Williams' family says his condition worsened in the ensuing days ... and Spectrum News 1's Jon Scott reported Monday he passed away.

He was just 36 years old.

News of his death Monday evening rocked the football world ... with his former teammate, Gerald McCoy, tweeting he was devastated to learn of the passing.

"Dang man hurts my heart seeing the news of my former teammate and Buccaneers 2010 draft class brother Mike Williams," McCoy said. "Always great energy, brought joy and laughter to the locker room and a heck of a player!! Prayers and blessings to his family!! 🙏🏾😔"

The Bucs picked Williams with a selection in the fourth round of the '10 NFL Draft ... and he went on to have an outstanding rookie season, finishing only behind Sam Bradford for OROY honors.

He would go on to play for three more seasons in Tampa, before he was traded to the Bills in 2014. He was never able to replicate the production he had as a rookie, however, and he bounced from the league after just one year in Buffalo.

The former Syracuse standout finished his career with 3,089 receiving yards and 26 receiving touchdowns in 63 total games.

RIP.

Apparently, seven Super Bowl rings and 89,214 passing yards ain't enough to earn the label of "Best of All-Time" from Joe Montana ... 'cause the 49ers legend says Dan Marino, NOT Tom Brady, gets that title from him.

The Hall of Famer made the bold statement during a recent interview with Men's Health, explaining if Marino were playing in today's era of football -- he very well could have done what Brady did ... and maybe better.

"Put Marino into today’s game where he gets free release ... and his receivers, holy cow, weren't very big," Montana said.

"Now these guys are 6'4, 6'5. I think [Marino] is probably one of the most unsung heroes of the game. People don't talk enough about him or realize the numbers that he put up during the times that he put them up."

Montana also gushed about Marino's tangibles while naming him the B.O.A.T. ... adding, "He had a quick release. I had to step into a lot of things to get enough [force] on the ball."

"He had the perfect torque of his upper body and strength to deliver the ball quickly at a fast release with accuracy."

Now, don't get it twisted ... Montana did note there is a delineation between Greatest of All-Time and Best of All-Time -- though it sure did seem he still believes he holds that crown over Brady as well.

As for who could capture it going forward ... Montana dubbed Patrick Mahomes as the man with the most potential there.

Gisele Bündchen says her divorce from Tom Brady has been no cakewalk ... admitting the recent split has been hard on her, but she's getting through the rough patch by shifting her focus elsewhere.

The supermodel went into detail about ending her 13-year marriage with the seven-time Super Bowl champion in an interview with Vogue Brazil this week ... where she opened up about finding the silver lining, despite how much of a toll it has taken on her.

"I've always believed that every situation, no matter how challenging, teaches us something and helps us grow," Gisele said.

"Breakups are never easy, especially when the media is speculating every step of the way."

Of course, there was a lot of speculation at the time about why Gisele and Tom were calling it quits -- many believed it was about Brady's return to football, but as we previously reported, that was simply not the case.

Gisele added she is keeping her kids, health, career, and aspirations the priority after the divorce ... as she now has a better understanding and acceptance of herself.

Tom Brady is racking up teams like Super Bowl rings -- the retired NFL superstar has become part owner of yet another sports organization ... this time, it's the Birmingham City Football Club.

The G.O.A.T. announced the business move in a hype video on Thursday ... saying "he's officially coming on board" the English Football League Championship squad.

"And maybe you're asking what do you know about English football, Tom?" Brady said in the clip. "Well, let's just say I've got a lot to learn. But I do know a few things about winning, and I think they may translate pretty well."

Brady -- who joins the club's current owners, Knighthead Capital Management LLC -- will also serve as chairman of the advisory board.

"I know success starts with the work put in when the world isn't watching," Brady added. "I know a team is nothing without the city that shows up and stands behind it."

"Most importantly, I know I like being the underdog. The road's been long for Birmingham, but these fans have never stopped believing."

The Blues will hope Brady's winning will rub off on them ... 'cause the team finished 17th in England's second-tier league last season.

Birmingham City also addressed the move in a statement ... saying Brady will work directly with the team's sports science department to share his knowledge on "health, nutrition, wellness, and recovery systems and programs."

"I'll see you at St Andrew's soon," TB12 added. "It's time to get to work."

Brady has clearly found a new hobby in sports ownership after retiring in February -- his collection now includes Birmingham City, the Las Vegas Raiders, the WNBA's Las Vegas Aces, a Major League Pickleball team, and, most recently, an E1 World Championship electric boat racing franchise.

Shaquil Barrett is honoring his 2-year-old daughter in a special way after she drowned earlier this year ... starting a foundation in her name to educate parents on water safety.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker made the announcement during a training camp press conference Monday ... saying the organization will help families avoid accidents like the one involving his daughter, Arrayah, who drowned in a pool on April 30.

"We're gonna just help out as much as possible, like swim lessons for other families, install AI cameras for other families," Barrett said to reporters.

In fact, the 30-year-old said he actually installed devices in his own home now ... as well as more gates.

"We had gates up, but we just left it open that night, but we got more gates up," Barrett said.

"We got all precautions in the way to prevent it from happening and that's why Arrayah Hope Inc. is gonna be beneficial for a lot of families."

The 2-time Super Bowl champ added the passing of his daughter still breaks his heart, but the start of training camp is helping him get through it.

"It don't get any easier," Barrett said. "It's just me being busy keeps my mind off it a little bit ... it's just tough. It's just always gonna be tough."

"This would've been her first [camp] that she would've been able to come to and actually remember."

Prior to Bucs camp, Barrett and his wife, Jordanna, also honored Arrayah by getting tribute tattoos from Tattoo Red ... with Shaq getting the photo from her 2nd birthday inked on his forearm.