Bucs Nation
In a surprising move following Thursday’s joint practice with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles confirmed that quarterback Baker Mayfield will not suit up for Saturday night’s preseason game.
Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times shared the news Thursday night.
Despite initially indicating that nearly all starters would play—aside from wide receiver Mike Evans and linebacker Lavonte David—Bowles reversed course after reviewing Mayfield’s practice performance. He described it was so impressive that there was essentially no point to play him in Pittsburgh this weekend.
Multiple reports painted a picture of Mayfield excelling against Pittsburgh’s defense, including a standout two-minute drill culminating in a touchdown connection with Mike Evans, even against cornerback Jalen Ramsey.
Mayfield had already skipped the Buccaneers’ preseason opener versus the Titans. Despite the team being careful with him due to a contusion on his throwing hand last week it’s clear there is nothing wrong with Mayfield’s hand anymore.
This strategic decision underscores Bowles’ confidence in Mayfield’s readiness and health heading into the regular season—opting to preserve his quarterback’s momentum rather than risk unnecessary exposure.
