Baker Mayfield returns to Buccaneers practice amid team injury concerns

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield returned to practice on Wednesday, marking his first appearance since dislocating his throwing-hand thumb during a Week 3 game against the Minnesota Vikings. Mayfield was observed wearing a white glove on his right hand while taking snaps and throwing. Head coach Todd Bowles described the practice session as “encouraging” and “effective,” noting that the team will evaluate Mayfield's progress on Thursday to determine his availability for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers.

The Buccaneers, currently holding a 1-5 record, are also managing a wave of other injuries and illnesses. Wide receiver Emeka Egbuka (concussion/foot) and offensive tackle Luke Goedeke (calf) were listed on the injury report, while several other players, including Bucky Irving and Zyon McCollum, dealt with illnesses.

In Mayfield's absence, undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels has served as the starting quarterback. Daniels recently led the team to a victory over the Dallas Cowboys but struggled in a recent overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he threw two fourth-quarter interceptions.