The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are preparing for another week without starting quarterback Baker Mayfield. Rookie Jalon Daniels may lead the offense again as Mayfield recovers from a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand. Daniels is expected to make his third consecutive start when the Buccaneers face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.
According to Rick Stroud from the Tampa Bay Times, Mayfield missed practice on Thursday for the second day. This increases the chances that Daniels will remain the starting quarterback. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport also reported that Daniels is expected to start for the Buccaneers once more.
Although the team has not officially ruled Mayfield out, his ongoing absence suggests a cautious approach to his recovery. Mayfield’s injury occurred during the Buccaneers’ Week 3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. He has missed the last two games.
“Nothing has changed. I mean, he’s getting better. We’ll see how much he throws and see how he looks,” Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles said about the situation.
Bowles emphasized that Mayfield would not return unless fully healthy. “If he’s not 100%, he doesn’t need to play,” Bowles stated. This gives Daniels a chance to prove himself as a dependable option for Tampa Bay. The undrafted rookie from Kansas has started the last two games, showing improvement as he gains experience in the NFL.
Daniels made his first career start against the Green Bay Packers in Week 4. He then helped the Buccaneers secure their first win of the season against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5. Daniels completed 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers’ 24-16 win. His performance ended Tampa Bay’s four-game losing streak and showed promise for the offense without Mayfield.
Running back Bucky Irving provided strong support with a career-high 165 rushing yards and two touchdowns. A balanced attack could be crucial against Pittsburgh. The Steelers hold a 3-2 record, with pass rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith posing challenges. Daniels’ mobility offers Tampa Bay an alternative offensive approach.
In his first three appearances, Daniels has completed 38 of 55 passes for 337 yards, with two touchdowns and three interceptions. He also contributed 87 rushing yards. The game against Dallas highlighted his potential to manage the offense under pressure.
Another start would give Daniels more experience while allowing Mayfield time to recover. Despite the rookie’s potential, no indication exists that the Buccaneers plan a permanent change at quarterback. Before his injury, Mayfield completed 63.5% of his passes for 615 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. His return is essential for the Buccaneers to build on their recent win.
With Mayfield missing practice and Sunday’s game approaching, the focus shifts to Daniels. If Mayfield’s condition does not improve, Tampa Bay is likely to rely on its rookie quarterback once again.