Buccaneers Prepare for Another Game Without Baker Mayfield, Jalon Daniels Set to Start

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are gearing up for another week of football without their starting quarterback, Baker Mayfield. Rookie Jalon Daniels is set to lead the offense once more as Mayfield continues his recovery from a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand. This injury has kept Mayfield sidelined, leaving Daniels to potentially make his third consecutive start when the Buccaneers face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.

Rick Stroud from the Tampa Bay Times reports that Mayfield missed practice on Thursday for the second consecutive day. This increasing absence heightens the likelihood of Daniels remaining the starter. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport also supports the expectation that Daniels will start another game.

Although Mayfield has not been officially ruled out, his persistent absence from practice indicates the Buccaneers may exercise caution with their veteran quarterback. The injury occurred during Week 3’s encounter with the Minnesota Vikings, sidelining Mayfield for the past two games. Despite earlier optimism around his potential return against Pittsburgh, Mayfield’s practice absences raise doubts about his readiness.

Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles discussed the quarterback situation on Wednesday. He emphasized that Mayfield’s ability to grip and throw would be crucial in his availability assessment. “Nothing has changed. He’s getting better. We’ll see how much he throws and how he looks,” Bowles said. He underscored the need for Mayfield to be fully healthy before returning. “If he’s not 100%, he doesn’t need to play,” Bowles stated.

With Mayfield’s status uncertain, Daniels has a chance to prove himself as a dependable alternative. The undrafted rookie from Kansas has already started the last two games for Tampa Bay, showing progress as he gains more NFL experience.

In Week 4, Daniels took the helm against the Green Bay Packers, and in Week 5, he helped secure the team’s first victory of the season against the Dallas Cowboys. He completed 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown, avoiding interceptions in the Buccaneers’ 24-16 win. This performance halted Tampa Bay’s four-game losing streak, offering hope for an offense finding its footing without Mayfield.

Daniels benefited from a strong ground game, led by running back Bucky Irving, who notched a career-high 165 rushing yards and two touchdowns. This balanced attack could prove essential against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers, holding a 3-2 record, have a formidable defense powered by pass rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, posing a real test for Daniels as he adjusts to the NFL’s challenging pace and physicality. However, Daniels’ mobility offers Tampa Bay additional offensive options.

Through his initial three games, Daniels has completed 38 of 55 passes for 337 yards, recording two touchdowns and three interceptions. He has also added 87 rushing yards. These statistics illuminate the hurdles of NFL transition. Yet, his performance against Dallas highlighted his capability to manage the game and make critical plays.

As the Buccaneers prepare for another game, another start for Daniels would not only furnish him with invaluable experience but also grant Mayfield more time to heal. Mayfield remains the confirmed starter for Tampa Bay, and there is no indication of a permanent role alteration.

Before his injury, Mayfield had completed 63.5% of his passes for 615 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions. His return is crucial for the Buccaneers, aiming to build momentum after their first win. However, with practices missed and Sunday drawing near, the spotlight is on Daniels to possibly step up once more. Tampa Bay seems ready to rely on their rookie quarterback unless Mayfield’s condition markedly improves by game day.