Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield is out vs. Steelers, but when could he return from injury? appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will face the Pittsburgh Steelers without Baker Mayfield, but his return could be approaching. The Buccaneers quarterback continues to recover from a dislocated thumb, although optimism is growing about his availability next week.
According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, Mayfield will miss his third consecutive game Sunday. However, there’s optimism that he could return against the Carolina Panthers in Week 7.
That matchup would mark Tampa Bay’s first NFC South game of the season. It could also provide Mayfield with an opportunity to regain momentum after an extended absence.
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The veteran quarterback suffered the injury during Tampa Bay’s Week 3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. He dislocated his right thumb late in the fourth quarter.
Subsequent medical testing revealed no additional damage, offering some encouragement about his recovery.
However, Mayfield’s ability to grip and throw a football remains an important factor in determining his return.
Head coach Todd Bowles recently acknowledged that Mayfield’s Week 7 availability was still uncertain. The Buccaneers have avoided rushing their starting quarterback into action.
Earlier reports suggested Mayfield could miss three to six weeks, depending on his recovery progress.
Meanwhile, rookie Jalon Daniels has stepped into the starting role during Mayfield’s absence. The Buccaneers backup quarterback has been preparing for another start against Pittsburgh.
Daniels helped Tampa Bay secure a 24-16 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5.
Mayfield’s potential return against Carolina would provide a timely boost as Tampa Bay begins divisional competition.
For now, the Buccaneers must navigate another game without their starting quarterback. His progress next week will determine whether the anticipated return becomes reality.
Related: Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield officially won’t play again in Week 6