The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in a critical situation as they have a crucial game against the Carolina Panthers that will decide the team’s future this season. However, amid this critical situation, the star QB of the team, Baker Mayfield is injured.
The looming question is whether this setback will sideline Mayfield for the pivotal Sunday clash against the Carolina Panthers, where the division title hangs in the balance. Todd Bowles, the head coach of the team has shared an update about the QB’s injury.
Will Baker Mayfield play vs Panthers?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a crucial game against the Carolina Panthers. This game determines whether the team will continue in the playoffs or not. If the team wins this game, they will secure their third consecutive NFC South Division title and a home playoff game as the fourth seed.
The Bucs’ season will come to an end if they lose this important game. Starting quarterback Baker Mayfield sustained a rib injury in the team’s devastating 20-13 defeat to the Saints in their most recent game.
Although the QB, after taking a break, reentered the game, he missed practice. The QB shared that his X-rays were negative, which means there is no serious injury and he can play in the game against the Panthers. However, the team will still prioritize the QB’s health and make sure he is fit enough to play.
“Ribs don’t feel too great right now,” Mayfield said. “X-rays, as of right now, are negative so that’s good but we’ll do more exams to see what’s really bugging me. But, don’t have anything right now besides just sore.”
Baker Mayfield shared that he hasn’t tested his movement yet, creating uncertainty about his participation in the game.
“Obviously, I didn’t exactly test it out today,” the QB said. “Just more mental reps for everybody. I’m just going to see. Like I said, I haven’t tested it out, so I’ve just got to get loose. I’m sure by the time we get closer to game time, adrenaline will be rolling, especially with where we are sitting at right now, situationally.”
Mayfield is relying on mental preparation, but he is determined to play against the Panthers.
Todd Bowles shares update on Baker Mayfield rumored injury
The head coach of the team, Todd Bowles, confirmed that Tom Brady’s replacement, Baker Mayfield will play in the game against the Panthers. The coach shared that Mayfield’s reports were clear, indicating no serious injury.
However, the HC emphasized giving the QB some time to practice and prepare.
“We’ll get him some more reps,” Bowles said “He’s been preparing all year. If Baker is sore tomorrow, Trask will get the reps and we’ll kind of go from there.”
The coach also talked about the determination of Baker Mayfield who stated that he would do his best to be able to play in the game.
“I know he’s going to do everything he can to play,” Bowles said. “I’m not a doctor, I can’t feel what Baker is feeling, so I can’t tell you how he’s going to feel [or] if he’s able to play. If he can play, I know he’s going to try and play.”
Through 16 games, Mayfield achieved career highs of 3,907 yards and 28 touchdowns. He has the chance to surpass the 4,000-yard and 30-TD barriers for the first time.
His participation in the game will be significant for the team. The Buccaneers, currently 8-8, will kick off against the Panthers (2-14) at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.
