Overview
- Mayfield dislocated his right thumb late in the fourth quarter of Tampa Bay’s Week 3 loss and has missed the last two games while the team monitors his throwing ability.
- Team imaging reportedly showed no major ligament damage, but Mayfield has had stitches removed, experienced swelling after throwing, and the club is withholding him until grip strength and throwing feel right.
- Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels started his third straight game in Week 6 and produced a surprise win over Dallas but threw two late interceptions in a 26-19 overtime loss to Pittsburgh that dropped the Buccaneers to 1-5.
- The Buccaneers have not placed Mayfield on injured reserve and are cautious about rushing him back because his ability to hold and throw the ball determines a safe timeline for return.
- If Mayfield is healthy for Week 7, his return for the Carolina game could materially change Tampa Bay’s short-term outlook in the NFC South and affect how the team manages its roster and playoff hopes.