Overview
- Baker Mayfield has missed the last two games with a dislocated right thumb and is scheduled to test his ability to grip and throw before the team finalizes the Week 6 lineup.
- Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels took over for Mayfield and led an upset road win over the Dallas Cowboys in his second start, improving the Buccaneers to 1-4.
- Daniels completed 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards with one touchdown, no interceptions, and added 23 rushing yards in the Cowboys game.
- OptaStats and ESPN noted Daniels reached rare marks for a first-time starter and became the first undrafted rookie QB to beat the Cowboys since 1987, increasing public and analytic attention to his play.
- Reporters say Daniels is expected to start against Pittsburgh unless Mayfield’s grip test proves he can throw effectively, and a second straight Daniels victory would heighten calls to keep him in the lineup and alter roster and game‑planning decisions.