Baker Mayfield Out Rookie Jalon Daniels Steps Up for Buccaneers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterack Baker Mayfield will be sidelined for a minimum of three weeks due to a dislocated right thumb, as confirmed by head coach Todd Bowles. Mayfield, who has not undergone surgery for this injury but did receive stitches, could miss up to six weeks depending on how quickly he can regain the ability to grip a football. This unfortunate incident occurs as Mayfield underwent an MRI which fortunately revealed no further damage to the thumb’s ligaments or tendons.

With Mayfield out, the Buccaneers have decided against placing him on injured reserve, holding out hope for a quicker return. In the interim, the team’s quarterback duties will fall to Jalon Daniels, an undrafted rookie. This decision comes even as Mayfield’s absence could extend potentially to five or six games as internally feared by the team.

Daniels, whose practice squad contract includes unusual guarantees indicative of the team’s belief in his potential, will start for the Buccaneers, backed up by Easton Stick. His debut as a starter will be against the Green Bay Packers, marking a significant moment as he becomes the only rookie quarterback to start in this season so far. Head coach Todd Bowles has expressed confidence in Daniels’ ability to perform, emphasizing the support he will have from the team.

As the Buccaneers navigate this challenging period without their star quarterback, the performance of Jalon Daniels could be pivotal. His initial outings against teams like the Packers, Cowboys, and Steelers will be critical for the Buccaneers, who are currently seeking their first win of the season. The next few weeks are set to be a significant test for both Daniels and the Buccaneers’ adaptability under pressure.

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