Tampa Bay Gets Its Starting Quarterback Back
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are preparing to get a major boost on offense, as quarterback Baker Mayfield is expected to return to the starting lineup Sunday against the Carolina Panthers after missing the team’s previous three games with a dislocated right thumb. Head coach Todd Bowles said Friday that Mayfield looked ready to play following a full week of practice. Although he remains officially listed as questionable, the Buccaneers expect their veteran quarterback to be back under center. Mayfield suffered the injury during Tampa Bay’s Week 3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings when his throwing hand was hurt on a late-game pass. The injury forced him to miss three games, leaving rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels to take over the offense.
Mayfield Has Worked His Way Back
Mayfield’s return comes after a week of progress in practice. The quarterback participated fully in all three of Tampa Bay’s practices and has been throwing with a specially reinforced glove designed to protect his right thumb.
The glove includes a rigid support behind the thumb to help prevent it from bending backward. Mayfield acknowledged that the equipment changes how he grips the football, but he believes the thumb has recovered enough for him to compete.
The 31-year-old had hoped to return for last week’s game against Pittsburgh, but the Buccaneers decided he needed more time. Tampa Bay eventually lost that matchup 26-19 in overtime after surrendering a fourth quarter lead.
Buccaneers Need a Spark on Offense
Mayfield’s return could be important for a Tampa Bay team that has struggled to find consistency. Before getting injured, he had thrown for 615 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions through three games.
Daniels started the next three contests, helping Tampa Bay earn a victory over Dallas but also throwing five interceptions during his time as the starter. His experience provided valuable opportunities for the rookie, but the Buccaneers will now turn back to their established quarterback.
Mayfield’s familiarity with the offense and experience in pressure situations could help Tampa Bay become more consistent. However, his throwing thumb and ability to regain his timing will be important things to watch in his first game back.
A Crucial Division Matchup Awaits
The Buccaneers travel to face the Panthers on Sunday in an important NFC South matchup. Tampa Bay needs a strong performance to improve its position in the division, while Carolina will look to take advantage of playing at home.
Mayfield’s return gives the Buccaneers a familiar leader as they attempt to turn their season around. The injury has kept him off the field for three games, but a full week of practice has put him in position to return.
With Mayfield expected to start, Tampa Bay will be counting on its veteran quarterback to help stabilize the offense and give the Buccaneers a much needed lift against Carolina.