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2w ago

Baker Mayfield Cleared to Start for Buccaneers After Thumb Rehab

His availability for Sunday will decide whether the 1-5 Buccaneers get their veteran starter for a pivotal NFC South game as the team watches how his thumb holds up over consecutive practice days.

Oct 8, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) on the field before the start of the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Mayfield dislocated his right thumb on Sept. 27 in Week 3 and team imaging showed no fracture or surgical ligament repair was needed.
  • Coaches confirmed on Friday that Mayfield practiced fully this week and looks ready to start Sunday at Carolina, pending any late setback.
  • He has been throwing with a custom protective glove that includes a reinforced plate behind the thumb to prevent hyperextension and to restore grip and release mechanics.
  • Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels started three games during Mayfield’s absence and went 1-2, leaving the Bucs to weigh short-term performance against returning their veteran quarterback.
  • The glove was developed with help from Tampa Bay Rays staff, and Mayfield’s return matters because a win in Week 7 would give the last-place Buccaneers a chance to salvage their season and keep NFC South hopes alive.