Baker Mayfield remained sidelined at Thursday’s practice, casting a long shadow over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Week 6 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. What was once a possibility for an early return is now looking less likely, forcing the Bucs to prepare for another game without their starting quarterback.
Mayfield’s Thumb Just Won’t Cooperate
The big issue? Mayfield’s dislocated thumb, suffered way back in Tampa Bay’s Week 3 loss to Minnesota, just isn’t cooperating. He was initially expected to miss at least three weeks, and while there was some hopeful chatter about an early comeback, that’s pretty much dead in the water now. The whole thing hinges on his ability to actually grip and throw the football, and his continued absence from practice tells you everything you need to know. It’s a brutal break for a team trying to find its footing.
It’s Jalon Daniels’ Show Again
With Mayfield out, undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels is expected to make his third consecutive start for Tampa Bay, unless some wild circumstances change. Daniels stepped up last Thursday and actually led the Bucs to their first win of the season against Dallas. That’s a good sign, but it is a lot to ask of a rookie. Across his three games so far, Daniels has completed 38 of 55 passes for 337 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions. He’s also added 87 yards on 16 rushing attempts, so he’s not afraid to use his legs. For comparison, Mayfield had thrown for 615 yards and two touchdowns against two interceptions this season, completing 63.5% of his passes.
Tampa Bay is heading into Pittsburgh with a rookie QB making his third start, and it means the Steelers will have a very different opponent to prepare for. It’s a massive challenge for Daniels, but a huge opportunity to show what he’s got.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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