The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are preparing for another game without their starting quarterback, Baker Mayfield. He continues to recover from a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand. As a result, rookie Jalon Daniels is expected to lead the offense again when Tampa Bay faces the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.
Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports that Mayfield missed practice on Thursday for the second day in a row. This increases the likelihood that Daniels will start for the third consecutive game. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport also confirmed that Daniels is likely to remain under center.
Although the Buccaneers have yet to officially rule Mayfield out, his absence from practice suggests a cautious approach from the team. Mayfield sustained the injury in Week 3 against the Minnesota Vikings, which has sidelined him for the last two games. While there was hope for his return against Pittsburgh, his inability to practice casts doubt on his readiness.
Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles commented Wednesday on the situation, noting that Mayfield’s ability to grip and throw the football is crucial for determining his availability. “Nothing’s changed. He’s getting better. We’ll see how much he throws,” Bowles said.
Bowles emphasized the team’s stance on not rushing Mayfield back until he is fully healthy. “If he’s not 100%, he doesn’t need to play,” Bowles stated.
With Mayfield’s status uncertain, Daniels has the chance to prove himself as a viable option. The undrafted rookie from Kansas has started two games for Tampa Bay, showing growth as he adapts to NFL competition. After starting against Green Bay in Week 4, Daniels led Tampa Bay to its first victory of the season, defeating the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5.
In that game, Daniels completed 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards, including a touchdown with zero interceptions. His strong performance helped break the team’s four-game losing streak, indicating potential for a Mayfield-less offense.
Running back Bucky Irving also played a crucial role against Dallas, recording 165 rushing yards and two touchdowns, providing stability for the offense.
This balance will be important against the Steelers, who hold a 3-2 record and boast a robust defense led by pass rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Their ability to pressure quarterbacks presents a challenge for Daniels, still adjusting to the NFL’s intensity.
Daniels’ mobility, however, adds a tactical element. In his first three outings, he completed 38 of 55 passes for 337 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions while rushing for 87 yards.
Though Daniels faces the hurdles of transitioning to the NFL, his performance against Dallas showed he can manage the offense and create plays when essential. Another start would not only grant Daniels vital experience but also extend recovery time for Mayfield.
Before his injury, Mayfield completed 63.5% of passes for 615 yards. His return remains vital for Tampa Bay, which aims to build momentum following their first seasonal win. However, with practices missed and the game approaching, the focus centers on Daniels stepping up once more. Unless Mayfield progresses swiftly, Tampa Bay is set to rely on their rookie quarterback again.
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