The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are handing the backup quarterback job to an undrafted rookie instead of Jake Browning. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Jalon Daniels has won the competition.
Daniels entered the Buccaneers’ offseason as an unlikely candidate for the job. The rookie received a $25,000 signing bonus after joining Tampa Bay as an undrafted free agent.
Browning, meanwhile, signed a one-year deal during the offseason. He was expected to serve as Mayfield’s backup entering the season.
Jalon Daniels Earned the Opportunity
Daniels changed those expectations with his performance throughout the preseason. The rookie impressed while running Tampa Bay’s offense and gave the coaching staff plenty to consider.
Via NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport,
“#Sources: The #Bucs are moving forward with UDFA QB Jalon Daniels as their backup QB to Baker Mayfield, as he’s impressed throughout camp. A true find and a very cool story.”
Daniels finished the Buccaneers’ three preseason games with 239 passing yards. He also accounted for two total touchdowns during that stretch.
Browning, by comparison, threw for 86 yards on 15 attempts. Those performances helped Daniels leapfrog the veteran and secure the backup position.
The decision gives Tampa Bay an intriguing insurance option behind Mayfield. However, it also creates some obvious risk if the starting quarterback misses time.
Buccaneers Are Taking a Gamble
Mayfield has been remarkably durable since joining the Buccaneers. He has played all 17 games during each of his last three seasons.
That durability should give Tampa Bay some confidence in its decision. The Buccaneers will certainly hope Daniels never needs to take meaningful snaps.
Still, the reality is now different if Mayfield suffers an injury. Tampa Bay would be relying on an undrafted rookie to step into the starting role.
Browning will now have to find another opportunity after losing a competition he entered as the favorite. The Buccaneers clearly saw enough from Daniels to change their plans.
For Daniels, this is an incredible opportunity after entering the NFL without being drafted. For Browning, it could be a decision he remembers for a long time.
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