What is confirmed
Mayfield has missed three games with a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand. He was a full participant in practice all three days this week, and Bowles called it a "normal practice week" for him, per Laine. He is expected to play with a custom glove that supports the injured right thumb, per Underdog NFL.
Jalon Daniels started the last three games in his place. He goes back to the bench Sunday.
The receiver news is worse. Emeka Egbuka, dealing with a concussion and a foot injury, is officially doubtful for Week 7. Bowles said Egbuka has "gotta have a heck of a recovery" and added, "right now I'm gonna say he's out," before clarifying that the official tag is doubtful. Egbuka was seen working at Friday's practice, per Greg Auman, but the coach's tone points toward him sitting.
Why it matters for RSO owners
Mayfield's return lifts the whole Tampa Bay passing game, even without Egbuka. The question is how well he grips and throws in the first game back. A thumb on the throwing hand can affect accuracy and velocity, and the glove is new. Expect a conservative plan early, with quicker throws.
If Egbuka sits, the targets he leaves behind go to the other Tampa Bay receivers and the tight ends. Those players gain the most from a real quarterback being back under center.
