The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have to wait a few more days for clarity on Baker Mayfield’s status. Head coach Todd Bowles said the team expects to know more about its injured quarterback on Wednesday, leaving his availability for Week 7 uncertain.
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Mayfield missed Sunday’s 26-19 overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers as he continues to recover from a dislocated right thumb. FOX Sports reporter Greg Auman shared Bowles’ update, putting Wednesday’s practice in focus as Tampa Bay prepares for its next game.
The Buccaneers have now gone three consecutive games without their starting quarterback. Mayfield suffered the injury late in Tampa Bay’s Week 3 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings and has yet to return to practice.
Baker Mayfield’s return remains uncertain
Tampa Bay has been cautious with Mayfield as he recovers from the injury to his throwing hand. Bowles previously stressed that the quarterback needs to demonstrate he can throw the ball comfortably before the team can assess his readiness to play.
That makes the upcoming practice schedule important. A return to throwing would offer a clearer indication of Mayfield’s progress, although it would not automatically guarantee he will be cleared for Sunday’s game.
The Buccaneers have relied on rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels during Mayfield’s absence. Daniels made his third consecutive start against Pittsburgh, throwing for 164 yards and a touchdown while recording two interceptions, according to Reuters’ game report.
Tampa Bay built a 13-0 lead before Pittsburgh rallied for the overtime victory. The defeat leaves the Buccaneers at 1-5 and increases the importance of finding stability at quarterback.
The Buccaneers visit the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, Oct. 25. Whether Mayfield can return will depend on his recovery and how he responds when he resumes throwing.
Wednesday’s update should provide a better picture of his progress. Until then, Tampa Bay’s plans for Week 7 remain unsettled.
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