Story perspectives

Buccaneers name Jalon Daniels backup quarterback over others

8/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers named undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels the backup quarterback to Baker Mayfield.
Daniels earned the role after completing 61.4% for 239 yards and one touchdown in three preseason games.
Daniels rushed 14 times for 37 yards and recorded a rushing touchdown.
He signed as an undrafted free agent with a $25,000 bonus.
Daniels beat Jake Browning and Connor Bazelak to claim the No. 2 quarterback position.

History

Historical Context

In 1994, undrafted quarterback Kurt Warner signed with the St. Louis Rams for a $1,000 bonus, later leading the team to Super Bowl XXXIV victory. Warner’s 1999 postseason run produced 414 passing yards and two touchdowns, earning the NFL MVP award and a $1 million contract extension. Similarly, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers promoted undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels, who posted a 61.4% completion rate and a $25,000 signing bonus, to backup Baker Mayfield. Warner’s breakthrough proved undrafted talent can reshape franchise fortunes, implying Daniels could spark a comparable resurgence for Tampa Bay season.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers named undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels the backup quarterback to Baker Mayfield.
Daniels earned the role after completing 61.4% for 239 yards and one touchdown in three preseason games.
Daniels rushed 14 times for 37 yards and recorded a rushing touchdown.
He signed as an undrafted free agent with a $25,000 bonus.
Daniels beat Jake Browning and Connor Bazelak to claim the No. 2 quarterback position.

1 / 2