Baker Mayfield faces 2-4 week absence with thumb injury, Buccaneers turn to rookie Jalon Daniels
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that quarterback Baker Mayfield may miss two to four weeks after injuring his thumb, prompting Tampa Bay to start rookie Jalon Daniels in the upcoming game.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield is expected to be sidelined for two to four weeks after sustaining a thumb injury, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said. An MRI will determine the exact severity, and a more serious ligament tear could extend his recovery time. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will start rookie undrafted free agent Jalon Daniels, who earned the backup role during training camp, for their Week 4 matchup against the Green Bay Packers. Daniels compiled 9,282 passing yards, 67 touchdowns and 31 interceptions over six seasons at Kansas, along with more than 1,400 rushing yards and 23 rushing scores.
The Buccaneers’ receiving corps is likely to see reduced production as they adjust to the quarterback change. Mayfield’s thumb injury follows a recent game in which he scored a nine-yard rushing touchdown and a 27-yard fumble return, but the team’s overall performance has been mixed.
Other injury updates include Dolphins running back De’Von Achane being ruled out for the season with a torn ACL, and Commanders linebacker Leo Chenal scheduled for season-ending neck surgery after a fracture. Both teams will look to address the gaps on their rosters ahead of upcoming contests.