The Buccaneers braced for Baker Mayfield's extended absence when the Tampa Bay starting quarterback suffered a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand in a Week 3 loss to the Vikings.
But things might finally be looking up for the last-place Buccaneers.
Mayfield was spotted at Wednesday's practice session going through throwing drills while wearing a glove on his right hand. Mayfield's ability to grip the football had been the main roadblock in his return, and that no longer appears to be the case. Mayfield was listed as a full participant with several days remaining before the team's trip to Carolina.
Baker Mayfield is back at Bucs practice today, wearing a glove on his throwing hand as he tests his injured thumb. First step toward returning to the field. Taking snaps, throwing as well. pic.twitter.com/UbyRM3CWQd
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) October 21, 2026
According to Bucs head coach Todd Bowles, he will make the decision by Friday on whether Mayfield is good to start in the Week 7 matchup with the NFC South-leading Panthers.
Bucs coach Todd Bowles said he anticipates making a decision about quarterback Baker Mayfield on Friday. He said he threw the ball well today and did well in what he was asked to do. They split reps up. A big thing will be how he feels tomorrow after a day of practice.
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) October 21, 2026
Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels had started the past three games in Mayfield's place, going 1-2 in his first taste of NFL action.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Baker Mayfield was spotted throwing in Bucs practice with a glove as he nears return