Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield will miss Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers due to an injury to his right throwing thumb, according to reports published Friday. Mayfield appears on the team’s injury report alongside three teammates, halting an offense that runs through him since his arrival in 2023.
Thumb Injury Sidelines Mayfield Before Green Bay Matchup
The absence forces the Buccaneers to adjust their offensive game plan following a week of medical evaluations leading into the weekend. Mayfield sustained the injury to his throwing hand, creating a void at the most crucial position on the roster. Reporting indicates that rookie Jalon Daniels is expected to start under center against the Green Bay defense.
Daniels brings a distinct playing style to the field compared to the sidelined starter. During his final two collegiate seasons at Kansas, the quarterback rushed for more than 1,000 yards, relying heavily on designed runs and quick scrambles rather than traditional dropback passing.
Multiple Injuries Test Buccaneers Roster Depth
Mayfield is not the only high-profile player missing from the lineup for Tampa Bay. First-round draft pick Rueben Bain is ruled out with groin and shoulder injuries, sidelining the player tasked with disrupting opposing quarterbacks. Tight end Ko Kieft and cornerback Benjamin Morrison also join them on the injury report as confirmed inactives.
The team received positive news elsewhere on the roster as six starters cleared the injury report and return to active status. Bucky Irving, Chris Godwin, Yaya Diaby, A’Shawn Robinson, Josiah Trotter, and Keionte Scott are all cleared to play. Trotter missed the previous contest despite leading the team in total tackles.
Packers Use Veterans to Fill Line Injury Gaps
Green Bay faces its own personnel shortages as the team prepares to host Sunday’s matchup with an depleted offensive line. Starting guards Aaron Banks and Jacob Monk are ruled out, alongside defensive tackles Warren Brinson and Anthony Campbell. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur indicated that Brinson faces an extended absence after suffering a groin injury during a training session slip on Wednesday.
To address the interior line deficiencies, veterans Laken Tomlinson and Kevin Zeitler could see immediate playing time after participating in just three practice sessions following their arrival. On the defensive side, linebacker Edgerrin Cooper avoided a prolonged absence after exiting the previous game against Atlanta with a concussion. Cooper practiced fully on Friday and is expected to start, bringing critical speed to contain a mobile opposing quarterback.
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