Introduction
The 2025 season has brought several headlines for Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With talk of injuries, backups, and possible benching swirling, it’s time to dive into exactly what’s happening with Mayfield: Was he hurt tonight? Is he playing? And what’s his status in terms of starting vs. backup?
Who is Baker Mayfield?
Baker Mayfield, selected first overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, has been the starting quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers since 2023.
He revived his career in Tampa Bay after less-consistent stints in Cleveland, Carolina and elsewhere, and recently signed a significant contract extension.
Current Status: Hurt Tonight?
Yes — Mayfield was injured during the game.
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In Week 12 vs. the Los Angeles Rams, Mayfield suffered a left shoulder injury (his non-throwing shoulder) when he scrambled and then on a Hail Mary throw caught his left shoulder.
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He was initially listed as doubtful to return and eventually ruled out for the rest of the game.
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The team announced he will undergo an MRI to determine the severity of the sprain.
Is He Benched or Backup?
As of now, no, Mayfield has not been benched in the sense of being replaced permanently as the starter — but he did leave the game tonight due to injury, so the backup stepped in.
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The backup quarterback, Teddy Bridgewater, entered after Mayfield exited and is expected to start if Mayfield is unavailable.
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There is no current indication the team has relieved Mayfield of his starting duties beyond this injury situation.
Is He Playing Tonight?
Given the latest update: Unlikely or doubtful.
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Since Mayfield was ruled out for the remainder of the Week 12 game and no timeline has been given for his return, his status for next game remains questionable.
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Until the MRI results and further team announcements come out, it cannot be confirmed he will play tonight or next game.
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The most recent injury status puts him on the questionable/out side for immediate return.
What Happens Now & What to Watch
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MRI Results – The severity of the left shoulder sprain will dictate how much time Mayfield misses. Some reports suggest an AC-joint sprain might be involved.
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Backup Role – If he is out for any meaningful time, Teddy Bridgewater will act as starter and the team may elevate another QB from practice squad for depth.
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Team Momentum & Playoff Implications – Tampa Bay was riding a good run; losing Mayfield could impact their offensive rhythm.
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Recovery and Return – Monitoring practice participation, injury report designations (questionable/doubtful/out) will be key indicators of when he might return.
Why This Matters
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For fans, fantasy football players and bettors, Mayfield being out or limited affects starting line-ups, odds and team performance.
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For the Buccaneers franchise, continuity at QB is critical — an injury to Mayfield may disrupt their playoff push.
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For Mayfield personally: sustaining an injury that sidelines him could impact contract, legacy and perception.
Summary
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Baker Mayfield did get hurt tonight, suffering a left shoulder injury and was ruled out for the remainder of the game.
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He is not currently benched in the sense of being demoted, but due to injury the backup has stepped in.
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It is unlikely he will play tonight unless there are sudden positive updates; his status remains uncertain pending further medical evaluation.
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Keep a close eye on the team’s official injury report and announcements from Tampa Bay.
FAQs
Q1: What exactly is Mayfield’s injury?
A1: He suffered a left shoulder sprain (non-throwing shoulder) during a scramble and aggravated it with a Hail Mary pass at the end of the half. He will undergo an MRI to determine severity.
Q2: Does this injury mean he is benched permanently?
A2: No — the injury caused him to leave the game, but there is no indication he has been permanently benched as starting QB. The backup is filling in as needed.
Q3: Will Mayfield play in the next game?
A3: At present it is uncertain. He is listed as doubtful/out for the remainder of the current game and pending MRI results. His participation in the next game depends on recovery, team decision, and practice/training status.
Q4: Who will start if Mayfield can’t go?
A4: Teddy Bridgewater is the immediate replacement and is expected to take the start if Mayfield remains unavailable.
Q5: How does this affect Tampa Bay’s season?
A5: Losing or limiting Mayfield could affect offensive continuity, playoff prospects and game planning. The Buccaneers will need to adapt their strategy and potentially rely more on run game, defense or short-game passing if Mayfield’s mobility is impacted.
