Baker Mayfield suffered a dislocated right thumb during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ 23-16 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, raising questions about his availability for the team’s upcoming game against the Green Bay Packers. With an MRI scheduled, Tampa Bay could be forced to rely on rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels if Mayfield is unable to play.

The injury comes at a difficult time for the Buccaneers, who have fallen to 0-3 to start the 2026 NFL season. Mayfield’s throwing-hand injury could significantly affect the team’s offensive plans as it looks to recover from its winless start.

Baker Mayfield Injury: What Happened Against the Vikings?

Baker Mayfield injured his right thumb, his throwing hand, during the Buccaneers’ Week 3 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings on September 27, 2026.

The injury occurred late in the fourth quarter, with less than two minutes remaining. Mayfield was hit while attempting a pass, which was intercepted by Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel. Mayfield appeared uncomfortable after the play and was subsequently replaced for Tampa Bay’s final offensive series.

Following the game, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles confirmed that Mayfield had suffered a dislocated thumb. Initial X-rays did not reveal a fracture, but the team scheduled an MRI for Monday to determine the extent of the damage.

Bowles explained that the MRI would help identify any additional issues inside the thumb and provide a clearer picture of Mayfield’s recovery timeline.

The injury is particularly significant because it affects Mayfield’s throwing hand. Even if there is no fracture, pain, swelling and limited thumb movement could interfere with his ability to grip and release the football.

Baker Mayfield MRI Update: Will He Play Against the Packers?

The Buccaneers are awaiting the results of Baker Mayfield’s MRI to understand the seriousness of his thumb injury.

Although the initial X-rays showed no fracture, further testing is necessary to assess potential ligament or soft-tissue damage. The results will help the medical staff determine whether Mayfield can continue playing or needs time to recover.

Mayfield has been Tampa Bay’s starting quarterback since joining the franchise in 2023. His experience and leadership have made him an important part of the team’s offense.

However, a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand presents a significant challenge. Quarterbacks need a firm grip to deliver accurate passes, particularly on deep throws and passes made under pressure.

The Buccaneers have not confirmed whether Mayfield will be available for their upcoming game against Green Bay. His participation will depend on the MRI findings, his recovery and the team’s medical assessment.

Until Tampa Bay provides an official update, his playing status remains uncertain.

Jalon Daniels: Who Is the Buccaneers Backup QB?

Jalon Daniels is the rookie quarterback positioned directly behind Baker Mayfield on the Buccaneers’ quarterback depth chart.

Daniels earned the backup role during training camp, beating out Jake Browning. He also entered the regular season ahead of Easton Stick in Tampa Bay’s quarterback pecking order.

Daniels made his NFL appearance against the Vikings after Mayfield left the game with his injury. The rookie entered during the final offensive series, giving him an unexpected opportunity to take snaps in a competitive situation.

His final pass was intercepted, ending Tampa Bay’s hopes of mounting a late comeback.

Despite the difficult circumstances of his brief appearance, Daniels could now be preparing for a much larger responsibility. If Mayfield is ruled out against the Packers, Daniels is expected to be in line for his first NFL start, according to the reported comments from Bowles.

The possibility of a rookie starting at quarterback makes Mayfield’s MRI results particularly important for Tampa Bay.

Buccaneers Depth Chart: Who Could Replace Baker Mayfield?

The Buccaneers’ quarterback depth chart has become a major talking point following Mayfield’s injury. Tampa Bay must now prepare for the possibility of playing without its established starter.

Jalon Daniels currently appears to be the leading replacement for Mayfield. He earned the backup position during the offseason and was the quarterback selected to finish the game against Minnesota.

Jake Browning also competed for the backup role during training camp. However, Daniels emerged ahead of him in the team’s reported plans.

If Mayfield is unavailable, the Buccaneers could adjust their offensive approach to suit Daniels. The coaching staff may emphasize shorter passes, quick decisions and a stronger rushing attack to reduce pressure on the rookie.

Running back Bucky Irving could become especially important in this scenario. A productive ground game would help Daniels settle into the offense and limit the need for him to make difficult throws.

Minnesota Vikings vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Match Player Stats

The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-16 in their September 27, 2026, matchup. The result extended Tampa Bay’s difficult start to the season, dropping the team to 0-3.

WEEK 3 • SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

Minnesota Vikings

23

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

16

Final score

Baker Mayfield’s Match Stats

Mayfield had a challenging outing against Minnesota before suffering his thumb injury.

Mayfield completed 17 of his 34 passes for 217 yards. He threw an interception on the play in which he injured his thumb and was sacked six times during the game.

One of the highlights for Tampa Bay came early in the contest when Mayfield connected with rookie wide receiver Ted Hurst III on a 40-yard touchdown.

However, the Buccaneers struggled to generate enough offense to overcome Minnesota. They managed just one touchdown as the Vikings secured a seven-point victory.

Jalon Daniels’ Match Performance

Daniels entered the game during Tampa Bay’s final offensive series after Mayfield left with his injury.

The rookie attempted to lead a late comeback but threw an interception on his final pass. His appearance was brief, and the available match report does not provide a complete statistical breakdown of his performance.

The experience could nevertheless prove valuable if Daniels is called upon to start in the coming week.

Bucs Score: How Tampa Bay Lost to Minnesota

The Buccaneers entered their matchup against the Vikings looking to improve their early-season record. However, Minnesota’s defense put consistent pressure on Mayfield and disrupted Tampa Bay’s passing game.

Mayfield was sacked six times, limiting the offense’s ability to maintain momentum. Although the Buccaneers produced a 40-yard touchdown connection between Mayfield and Ted Hurst III, they struggled to find the end zone consistently.

Minnesota finished with a 23-16 victory, leaving Tampa Bay with an 0-3 record.

The defeat also increased the pressure on the Buccaneers’ coaching staff to address offensive issues. Mayfield’s injury adds another challenge as the team prepares for its next matchup.

Jalen McMillan Injury Adds to Buccaneers’ Concerns

Baker Mayfield was not the only Buccaneers player to suffer an injury against Minnesota. Wide receiver Jalen McMillan also injured his left knee during the game.

McMillan is expected to undergo an MRI to determine the extent of his injury. The medical evaluation will also help establish whether the problem is connected to an issue he experienced during training camp.

His potential absence could create further difficulties for Tampa Bay’s offense, particularly if Mayfield is also unavailable.

The Buccaneers could need additional contributions from their remaining receivers and running backs while waiting for updates on both players.

It is important to distinguish Jalen McMillan, the injured wide receiver, from Jalon Daniels, the rookie quarterback who replaced Mayfield.

How Baker Mayfield’s Injury Could Affect the Buccaneers

Mayfield’s injury could force Tampa Bay to make several offensive adjustments, depending on the MRI results.

If Daniels starts against Green Bay, the Buccaneers may rely more heavily on their rushing attack and shorter passing plays. This could help the rookie manage the pressure of potentially making his first NFL start.

The coaching staff may also simplify certain aspects of the offensive game plan to allow Daniels to gain confidence and make quicker decisions.

However, replacing an experienced starting quarterback is a significant challenge. Mayfield’s familiarity with the offense, ability to read defensive coverages and experience in high-pressure situations are difficult to replicate.

The Buccaneers’ offensive line will also need to provide better protection after allowing six sacks against Minnesota.

Ultimately, Tampa Bay’s plans will depend on Mayfield’s MRI results and whether he can safely return to practice.

Baker Mayfield Injury: Latest Outlook

The Buccaneers are waiting for further medical information before making a decision about Mayfield’s availability.

The absence of a fracture on the initial X-rays is one part of the evaluation, but it does not establish how quickly he can recover from the dislocation.

Tampa Bay will need to consider his grip strength, throwing ability, pain levels and overall recovery before determining whether he is ready to play.

If Mayfield cannot suit up, Daniels is positioned to take over as the starting quarterback, with the team’s other quarterbacks providing additional depth.

With an 0-3 record, the Buccaneers will be looking to stabilize their offense and avoid further setbacks as the season progresses.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What injury did Baker Mayfield suffer?

Baker Mayfield suffered a dislocated right thumb on his throwing hand during the Buccaneers’ 23-16 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on September 27, 2026.

2. Is Baker Mayfield injured?

Yes. Mayfield dislocated his right thumb against the Vikings. Initial X-rays showed no fracture, but an MRI was scheduled to assess the full extent of the injury.

3. Will Baker Mayfield play against the Packers?

Mayfield’s availability against Green Bay remains uncertain. The Buccaneers are awaiting his MRI results before determining whether he can play.

4. Who is the Buccaneers backup QB?

Jalon Daniels is Tampa Bay’s reported backup quarterback behind Baker Mayfield. He replaced Mayfield during the final series against Minnesota.

5. Who will replace Baker Mayfield if he is out?

Jalon Daniels is expected to be the leading candidate to start if Mayfield is unable to play against the Green Bay Packers.

6. What are the Minnesota Vikings vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers match player stats?

The Vikings defeated the Buccaneers 23-16. Mayfield completed 17 of 34 passes for 217 yards, threw one interception and was sacked six times.

7. What is the Buccaneers’ current record?

The Buccaneers fell to 0-3 following their 23-16 defeat against the Minnesota Vikings.

8. What happened to Jalen McMillan?

Jalen McMillan injured his left knee against Minnesota and was expected to undergo an MRI to determine the severity of the injury.

Conclusion

Baker Mayfield‘s dislocated right thumb has created uncertainty for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following their 23-16 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. With an MRI scheduled and the team’s record at 0-3, his recovery is an important concern heading into the matchup against Green Bay.

Jalon Daniels is positioned to step in as the Buccaneers’ backup QB if Mayfield is unavailable. Tampa Bay’s quarterback depth chart and offensive strategy could therefore play a significant role in its next game.