Quarterback Jalon Daniels will make his start for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers as Baker Mayfield remains sidelined with a right thumb dislocation.
Stepping In For The Sidelined Mayfield
Mayfield was originally projected to miss three weeks of activity following his thumb injury, but Todd Bowles indicated that the recovery timeline could stretch further. With Mayfield unavailable, Daniels assumes the offensive leadership duties once again after guiding Tampa Bay to a 24-16 victory over the Dallas Cowboys last week. That performance marked Daniels’ second career NFL start and the first win in five games for the franchise.
The Numbers Behind Daniels’ First Win
During last week’s breakthrough performance against Dallas, Daniels completed 19 passes for 189 yards and recorded one touchdown throw. The showing provided stability for an offense searching for rhythm after a difficult opening stretch. Todd Bowles and the coaching staff turned to the young signal-caller to steady the unit while Mayfield continues his recovery from the joint injury.
NFC South Standings And Division Implications
A victory over Pittsburgh on Sunday could quickly propel the Buccaneers back into contention within a tight NFC South division. No team in the division currently holds a record above .500. The Carolina Panthers lead the standings with a 2-2 record, closely followed by the Atlanta Falcons at 2-3, leaving the door open for Tampa Bay to climb the ranks.
Steelers Matchup And Sunday Schedule
The Buccaneers host the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. Tampa Bay enters the home fixture looking to build momentum from their performance and secure their second victory under Daniels before the division race tightens further.
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