Baker Mayfield gives injury update ahead of Week 6 vs Steelers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have received an encouraging update regarding their starting quarterback, Baker Mayfield, as the team prepares for its Week 6 NFL matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Baker Mayfield "getting better," will test thumb with Wednesday throwing session. — ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) October 14, 2026

Baker Mayfield "getting better," will test thumb with Wednesday throwing session.

ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) October 14, 2026

Mayfield, 31, has missed Tampa Bay's last two games after suffering a dislocated thumb. However, the veteran quarterback is reportedly getting better and is scheduled to test the injury during a throwing session on Wednesday afternoon.

Despite the progress, Mayfield is not expected to be ready for Sunday's game. The Buccaneers are taking a cautious approach with their starting quarterback as they look to ensure he fully recovers before returning to the field.

Sep 27, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) scrambles with the ball against the Minnesota Vikings during the fourth quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Mayfield appeared in Tampa Bay's first three games of the season before sustaining the thumb injury. During that stretch, he threw for 615 yards and two touchdowns, although the Buccaneers lost all three contests.

The quarterback is in his fourth season with Tampa Bay after establishing himself as a key part of the franchise's offense. Last season, he recorded more than 3,600 passing yards and 26 touchdown passes while adding 382 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown across 17 games.

His absence has forced Tampa Bay to turn to undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels, who has started the team's last two games.

Daniels delivered an encouraging performance in Week 5, throwing for 189 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 24-16 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. The win provided Tampa Bay with a much-needed boost as the team navigates its quarterback situation.

Sep 13, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) makes a pass during the second quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Although Mayfield is making progress, the Buccaneers do not appear willing to rush him back into action before he is fully healthy. He is unlikely to serve as the team's emergency backup against Pittsburgh, meaning Daniels could once again be called upon to lead the offense.

Head coach Todd Bowles emphasized the importance of ensuring Mayfield is completely recovered before returning.

"If he's not 100 percent, he doesn't need to play," Bowles said.

That approach could keep Mayfield sidelined for another week, depending on how his throwing session goes and how his thumb responds afterward.

The Buccaneers, currently 1-4, will host the 3-2 Steelers on Sunday. While Mayfield's potential return remains uncertain, Tampa Bay will hope his recovery continues progressing as the team looks to build on its Week 5 victory.