Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield Injury Update

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Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield Injury Update

Originally posted on Bucs Report | By JR Garner | Last updated Sep 27, 2026 10:23 PM ET

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles announced after Sunday’s loss that Baker Mayfield suffered a dislocated thumb. The injury occurred on Mayfield’s throwing hand during Tampa Bay’s 23-16 loss to Minnesota.

Mayfield is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday. Those results should provide more information about the injury’s severity.

Offensive Line Failed Mayfield

The Buccaneers’ offensive line struggled throughout Sunday’s game against Minnesota. Mayfield faced pressure repeatedly and spent much of the afternoon scrambling to avoid defenders.

The protection problems put Tampa Bay’s quarterback in difficult situations throughout the game. Mayfield was rarely allowed to operate with consistent time in the pocket.

That performance becomes even more concerning following Mayfield’s injury. Tampa Bay’s inability to protect its quarterback was one of the most obvious problems against Minnesota.

Coaching Staff Faces More Questions

The offensive struggles also raise questions about Tampa Bay’s preparation and game plan. The Buccaneers struggled to consistently create opportunities for their offense.

The coaching staff failed to find enough answers as Minnesota’s defense controlled the line of scrimmage. Tampa Bay’s offense never established the consistency needed to keep pace.

Those issues are now compounded by Mayfield’s injury. The Buccaneers could be forced to turn to Jalon Daniels while their starting quarterback recovers.

MRI Will Determine Mayfield’s Timeline

Mayfield is expected to miss time with the injury. However, the MRI will determine whether that absence becomes relatively short or much longer.

A significant absence could become possible depending on the MRI results. A stint on injured reserve also cannot be ruled out at this point.

Daniels took over after Mayfield left Sunday’s game. He could now be in line to start while Mayfield is unavailable.

Mayfield’s Difficult Start Gets Worse

Entering Sunday’s game, Mayfield had appeared in two games this season. He completed 71 percent of his passes for 398 yards.

He also had one touchdown and one interception. His difficult start became considerably more complicated after suffering the thumb injury.

The Buccaneers now have problems across multiple areas of the team. The offensive line must improve, the coaching staff needs answers, and Mayfield’s injury creates another major concern.

At 0-3, Tampa Bay cannot afford to ignore those problems. Sunday’s loss exposed issues that will require immediate attention.

This article first appeared on Bucs Report and was syndicated with permission.

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