What is confirmed: Mayfield was a full participant in all three practices this week, and Bowles called it a "normal practice week" for him. He has missed three weeks with a dislocated thumb on his right, throwing hand. Jalon Daniels made the starts in his place. Mayfield will play with a custom glove built for the injured hand, according to Underdog NFL.
Mayfield said Thursday that he had hoped to come back for the Pittsburgh game in Week 6. He did not feel he was at 100 percent and thought Daniels gave the team a better chance that week.
The news is less encouraging at receiver. Bowles listed Emeka Egbuka as doubtful with a concussion and a foot injury. He said Egbuka would need "a heck of a recovery" and added, "right now I'm gonna say he's out too." Egbuka was seen working in Friday's practice, but he still has to clear the league's head injury protocol before he can play.
What it means: a healthy Mayfield lifts the floor for every Tampa Bay pass catcher. Daniels kept the offense afloat, but the passing game was a concern, and Mayfield spoke this week about a tough team meeting to address it. The thumb is the thing to watch. A throwing-hand injury plus a new glove can affect accuracy and velocity for a game or two.
For RSO owners, Mayfield goes back into lineups this week in most formats, especially in superflex and two-QB leagues. If you were holding Daniels as a bridge, he returns to the bench and can be cut in shallow leagues. Plan as if Egbuka will sit. Line up a Sunday 1 PM replacement now, and do not sell him cheap over a short absence.
