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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could really use a shot in the arm. Tampa only has one win on the season after missing Baker Mayfield in their last few games. The latest injury update on Tampa's franchise quarterback makes it perfectly clear what he needs to do before returning to the field.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport gave another injury update on Mayfield leading up to Week 7. The veteran quarterback's availability this week all depends on one displaying one simple skill in practice.
"Baker Mayfield, the Bucs quarterback, is expected to be on the practice field. He has missed three weeks, he's dealing with a dislocated thumb," Rapoport said on Tuesday via NFL Live. "It is a very simple thing: can he grip the ball and throw it? If he can, he is expected to play. If he cannot, it'll be another week of Jalon Daniels in Tampa."
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Mayfield has already missed three games this season with this thumb injury. Fortunately, the rookie Daniels has played well in relief of Mayfield. In fact, Tampa's only win on the season came at the hands of their undrafted rookie.
Earlier this week, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles seemed to hint that Daniels could remain the starter in Week 7.
"(Todd) Bowles said Wednesday will be important for evaluating Baker Mayfield and his thumb but they'll plan as if Jalon Daniels is starting again in terms of initial game-planning," Greg Auman of FOX Sports reported on Monday.
Tampa may only be 1-5 on the season, but they are still only a few games back in the NFC South standings. That means they could feel pressure to get Mayfield back quickly to help save their season. Especially with a crucial divisional showdown coming up this weekend.
Next up for the Buccaneers is a road game against the Panthers. This NFC South contest kicks off at 1 p.m. ET on Oct. 25 from Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.
Related: Buccaneers' Baker Mayfield injury update hints at more Jalon Daniels
