Tampa – The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced that starting quarterback Baker Mayfield will be unavailable for the next three weeks following a thumb injury suffered during Sunday’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The injury occurred when Mayfield scrambled out of the pocket and collided with linebacker Blake Cashman, forcing him to the ground.
Medical evaluation and prognosis
Team doctors performed X‑rays and an MRI on Mayfield early Monday morning. The imaging showed no fracture, ligament, or tendon damage, but the thumb was sufficiently bruised to require rest. Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed the three‑week recovery timeline, emphasizing that the team wants Mayfield to heal fully before returning to play.
Backup quarterback steps up
With Mayfield out, the Buccaneers will look to backup quarterback Jalon Daniels to lead the offense. Daniels, a former Kansas Jayhawk, amassed 9,282 passing yards and 67 touchdowns during his collegiate career. He entered the game on Sunday in relief of Mayfield and threw an interception in the final two minutes, but showed poise under pressure.
Coach Bowles indicated that Daniels is a viable option to start the upcoming matchup against the Green Bay Packers. The decision will be made after evaluating Daniels’ practice performance and ensuring the offensive line is prepared for his style of play.
Impact on the Buccaneers’ season
The Buccaneers entered the season with a three‑game losing streak, having fallen 23‑16 to the Vikings. Losing their newly signed quarterback, who recently agreed to a three‑year, $165 million extension, adds a significant challenge for the coaching staff. However, the team remains optimistic that Daniels can keep the offense competitive while Mayfield recovers.
Fans expressed disappointment at the news, but many voiced confidence in the depth of the roster and the coaching staff’s ability to adapt. The Buccaneers’ front office has not indicated any immediate roster moves beyond promoting Daniels.
What’s next for Mayfield?
Mayfield will undergo a rehabilitation program focused on thumb mobility and strength. The team expects him to return to practice after the three‑week period, with a tentative target to rejoin the active roster by early November.
In the meantime, the Buccaneers will continue to evaluate their offensive strategy, leaning on the running game and short‑pass concepts to support Daniels as he steps into the starting role.
Community response
Local supporters took to social media to wish Mayfield a swift recovery and to encourage Daniels. The Buccaneers organization thanked fans for their patience and reiterated its commitment to competing for a playoff spot despite the setback.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
