The Ringer’s Tom Pelissero reports there’s “optimism” Baker Mayfield (thumb) will return in Week 7 against the Panthers.

17 October 2026

Mayfield didn’t practice this week, but according to Buccaneers HC Todd Bowles he threw on Monday and was pushing to play before his “thumb swelled up on him.” It seems like Mayfield is trending in the right direction and that he could return against the Panthers in Week 7 if the swelling is no longer an issue. Jalon Daniels is starting for Tampa Bay again in Week 6 against the Steelers.