[REVISION HISTORY]

Mayfield injury and Buccaneers' early season struggles

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2026-10-23 17:22 UTC → 2026-10-25 21:50 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers resolved contract uncertainty by signing quarterback Baker Mayfield to a three-year, $165 million extension, the largest in franchise history. However, the team has struggled to find momentum in the 2026 season. Following a Week 1 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals and a Week 2 defeat against the Cleveland Browns, the Buccaneers fell to 0-2. In Week 3, Mayfield suffered a dislocated thumb, sidelining him for several weeks. During his absence, undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels took over starting duties. While Daniels led the team to a victory over the Dallas Cowboys, he struggled in a 26-19 overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, dropping the team to a 1-5 record. As the team faced an 0-3 start and mounting organizational pressure, head coach Todd Bowles faced increased scrutiny regarding his position. To bolster depth during Mayfield’s absence, the team signed veteran Brett Rypien to the practice squad. Mayfield has since returned to practice wearing a white glove on his right hand. He stated his thumb feels strong enough to grip and throw, despite previous concerns regarding physical contact. Head coach Bowles described the practice sessions as ‘encouraging’ and ‘effective.’ Mayfield is set to return to the starting lineup this Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, ending Daniels' recent tenure as starter. The team continues to manage additional injuries to players such as Emeka Egbuka and Luke Goedeke. Following his return, Mayfield led the Buccaneers to a dominant 43-13 victory over the Carolina Panthers, improving the team's record to 2-5. Despite the win, the offense relied heavily on a rushing attack that totaled 258 yards, led by Bucky Irving’s 106 yards and two touchdowns. Defensively, the team forced four turnovers, including a fumble return touchdown by Calijah Kancey.

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