Overview
- Mayfield was a full participant at Wednesday practice, taking snaps and throwing while wearing a glove as coaches called the session encouraging.
- Head coach Todd Bowles said he will monitor how Mayfield’s right thumb feels after practice and make a start/no-start decision on Friday.
- The Buccaneers are preparing Sunday’s game as if rookie Jalon Daniels will start while keeping Mayfield ready in case the thumb responds well to midweek work.
- Daniels has delivered a road upset of the Cowboys but also threw two fourth-quarter interceptions in a loss to Pittsburgh, leaving Tampa Bay’s 1-5 record and short-term plans in flux.
- Mayfield’s availability hinges on functional grip and post-practice response rather than imaging alone and his return would affect immediate game strategy and the team’s evaluation of its quarterback room under a $165 million extension.