Tampa Bay Buccaneers Prepare to Rely on Jalon Daniels Against Steelers

Mayfield’s Recovery Influences Buccaneers’ Quarterback Decisions

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are preparing for potentially another week without starting quarterback Baker Mayfield, allowing rookie Jalon Daniels to continue leading the offense. Mayfield is recovering from a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand. As a result, Daniels is expected to make his third consecutive start when Tampa Bay faces the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.

Reports from Tampa Bay Times’ Rick Stroud confirm Mayfield missed Thursday practice for the second day in a row. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport adds that Daniels is set to start again. Despite this, Tampa Bay has not ruled Mayfield out completely, but his consistent absence from practice signals a cautious approach to his return.

Evaluation of Mayfield’s Condition

Mayfield was injured during the Week 3 loss to the Vikings and has missed the past two games. Though there was initial optimism about his return against Pittsburgh, his lack of practice raises doubts. Head coach Todd Bowles highlighted the importance of Mayfield’s thumb strength and ability to throw.

“Nothing [has] changed. I mean, he’s getting better. We’ll see how much he throws and see how he looks,” Bowles stated.

Bowles stressed that they would not rush Mayfield back prematurely. “If he’s not 100%, he doesn’t need to play,” Bowles said.

Daniels’ Progress and Role

With Mayfield’s status uncertain, Daniels has a chance to prove himself as a dependable choice for Tampa Bay. As an undrafted rookie from Kansas, he has started the last two games, showing growth and adaptation to the NFL’s competitive environment.

Daniels, who debuted as a starter against the Packers in Week 4, contributed to Tampa Bay’s first win of the season against the Cowboys in Week 5. He completed 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown without interceptions in the Buccaneers’ 24-16 win. This performance ended a four-game losing streak and provided hope for an offense adapting to Mayfield’s absence.

Daniels benefited significantly from running back Bucky Irving, who achieved a career-high of 165 rushing yards and two touchdowns. This kind of balanced attack could prove crucial against the Steelers.

Challenges and Opportunities Against the Steelers

The Steelers, with a 3-2 record, boast a defense with pass rushers like T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Their pressure could test Daniels, who is still adjusting to NFL dynamics. His mobility may offer the Buccaneers a strategic edge.

Daniels has completed 38 of 55 passes for 337 yards, with two touchdowns, three interceptions, and 87 rushing yards in his first three appearances. These numbers reflect the challenges of the NFL transition, but his Dallas game showed his capacity to guide the offense effectively.

Another start would further Daniels’ experience, granting Mayfield recovery time. Mayfield remains the primary starter, showing 63.5% pass completion for 615 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions before his injury. His return is crucial for Tampa Bay’s momentum post their first win.

As game day nears and Mayfield’s availability remains unclear, the spotlight may remain on Daniels to lead the team’s offense.