When will Baker Mayfield return? Latest injury update on Buccaneers QB

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have to navigate a crucial stretch of their season without their starting quarterback after an injury suffered late in Week 3. The setback has already forced Tampa Bay to turn to an inexperienced option under center, creating plenty of uncertainty around when its veteran leader can return.

Baker Mayfield had been a constant presence for the Buccaneers since joining the team, starting 57 consecutive games before the injury. With Tampa Bay entering Week 4 still searching for its first win, the latest update provides a much clearer picture of how long the quarterback could be unavailable.

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Baker Mayfield could miss three to six weeks with thumb injury

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Sunday that Mayfield is dealing with a dislocated thumb that could keep him sidelined for anywhere from three to six weeks, with his recovery ultimately depending on how quickly he can regain enough grip strength to throw the football effectively.

“Baker Mayfield is dealing with a dislocated thumb that is expected to sideline the star quarterback anywhere from three to six weeks, depending on how quickly he is able to grip the football, per sources,” Schefter said.

Mayfield suffered the injury during Tampa Bay’s Week 3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. He completed 17 of 34 passes for 217 yards, one touchdown and one interception before leaving the game. X-rays initially showed no fracture, while subsequent evaluation found no ligament or tendon damage.

The quarterback has already been ruled out for the Buccaneers’ Week 4 matchup with the Green Bay Packers. Head coach Todd Bowles had previously said Mayfield would miss at least three weeks, while the latest report expands the potential recovery window considerably.

Buccaneers will rely on Jalon Daniels while Baker Mayfield recovers

With Mayfield unavailable, Tampa Bay is turning to undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels for his first NFL start. Daniels briefly appeared against Minnesota after Mayfield was injured, completing none of his three passes and throwing an interception on the final play.

Daniels now faces a much larger responsibility as the Buccaneers attempt to end an 0-3 start. Tampa Bay has also elevated veteran quarterback Easton Stick from its practice squad to serve as Daniels’ backup for Sunday’s game against Green Bay.

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There is still a possibility that Mayfield beats the longer end of the projected timeline. Tom Pelissero reported Saturday that Mayfield could potentially return as early as Week 5, although Week 6 against the Pittsburgh Steelers is considered the more realistic target.

That means the Buccaneers’ upcoming games will be important in determining just how much ground Mayfield needs to make up when he returns. Until he can comfortably grip and throw the football again, Tampa Bay will have to move forward without its starting quarterback.

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