The quarterback participated fully in practice on Wednesday and Thursday, signaling his readiness to resume duties. Mayfield expressed confidence in his recovery, noting that while the injury involved ligament and tendon damage, he has reached a point where the thumb feels strong enough to handle the demands of the position.
Managing the injury and equipment adjustments
To facilitate his return, Mayfield has been practicing with a specially designed glove reinforced with metal and padding on the back of the thumb. The equipment was developed with assistance from the Tampa Bay Rays' staff to ensure the quarterback could maintain his release point and grip. Mayfield noted that while the glove requires a slight adjustment to his throwing mechanics, he has grown comfortable with the setup during recent practice sessions.
A primary concern for the quarterback was the impact of receiving snaps from center Graham Barton. However, both players reported that their exchanges throughout the week have been consistent and trouble-free. Barton praised Mayfield’s competitive nature, noting that the team is focused on maintaining precision to protect the quarterback’s hand during game action.
Team outlook and recent progress
The Buccaneers currently hold a 1-5 record and are looking to spark a turnaround as they enter divisional play. Mayfield, who previously attempted to return for last week’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers before deciding he was not yet at full strength, emphasized a game-by-game approach to the remainder of the season.
During his three-week absence, Mayfield remained active in the team’s preparation, offering guidance to backup Jalon Daniels. Mayfield praised Daniels for his performance during the stretch, particularly his ability to secure a prime-time victory. The team also held a candid meeting earlier this week to address inconsistencies in the passing game, an initiative Mayfield supported as a necessary step toward improvement. Head coach Todd Bowles and teammates have noted that Mayfield’s continued involvement during his recovery has kept him mentally sharp as he prepares to reclaim his role under center.
