Steelers Get Critical Baker Mayfield Injury Update Before Week 6 Game vs. Buccaneers

The Pittsburgh Steelers could have a different quarterback to prepare for when they visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.

Baker Mayfield remained sidelined at Thursday's practice as he works his way back from a dislocated thumb suffered in Tampa Bay's Week 3 loss to Minnesota. The Buccaneers quarterback was initially expected to miss at least three weeks, though a potential early return had emerged as a possibility.

That return now appears less likely. Mayfield's ability to grip and throw the football remains a key factor in determining when he can get back on the field, and his latest absence leaves Tampa Bay preparing for another game without its starting quarterback.

Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels is expected to start against Pittsburgh unless circumstances change, according to NFL reporter Rick Stroud. Daniels would make his third consecutive start after leading Tampa Bay to its first win of the season against Dallas last Thursday.

Daniels has completed 38 of 55 passes for 337 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions across his previous three games. He has added 87 yards on 16 rushing attempts.

Mayfield has thrown for 615 yards and two touchdowns against two interceptions this season while completing 63.5% of his passes.