Story perspectives

Bowles to decide Mayfield starter status Friday

By Drooid · Oct 21, 2026, 11:19 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Todd Bowles will decide Baker Mayfield’s starter status on Friday.
Baker Mayfield dislocated his right thumb in Week 3 versus Minnesota and missed three games.
Jalon Daniels started three games, posting a 63.4 passer rating, the NFL’s lowest.
Bowles said Mayfield’s grip, throw speed, and snap comfort will determine his return for the Oct 25 Carolina game.
The Buccaneers are 1-5 and three-point road underdogs to the 3-2 Panthers.

History

Historical Context

In 2008, Tom Brady’s season-opening ACL tear forced backup Matt Cassel to start, and he led the New England Patriots to an 11-5 record, the first 11-win team to miss the playoffs since the NFL expanded the postseason in 1990. Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles now weighs Baker Mayfield’s thumb injury before the Oct. 25 game, highlighting how mid-season QB changes can alter playoff odds.

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Story summary

Todd Bowles will decide Baker Mayfield’s starter status on Friday.
Baker Mayfield dislocated his right thumb in Week 3 versus Minnesota and missed three games.
Jalon Daniels started three games, posting a 63.4 passer rating, the NFL’s lowest.
Bowles said Mayfield’s grip, throw speed, and snap comfort will determine his return for the Oct 25 Carolina game.
The Buccaneers are 1-5 and three-point road underdogs to the 3-2 Panthers.

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