The Tampa Bay Buccaneers received somewhat encouraging news regarding Baker Mayfield’s injured thumb.
An MRI performed Monday showed no additional damage to the thumb ligament or tendon beyond the dislocation. Todd Bowles also said Mayfield should not need surgery.
However, that does not mean Tampa Bay will get its quarterback back quickly.
Mayfield Could Miss Six Weeks
Mayfield suffered the dislocation during Tampa Bay’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
The two-time Pro Bowler also required stitches to close the wound caused by the dislocation. Now, the Buccaneers must prepare for the possibility of a lengthy absence.
“Baker Mayfield is dealing with a dislocated thumb that is expected to sideline the star quarterback anywhere from three to six weeks, depending on how quickly he is able to grip the football, per sources.”
That six-week possibility should be the focus for Tampa Bay right now.
Three Weeks Would Be the Best-Case Scenario
Nobody knows exactly how quickly Mayfield will regain the ability to grip the football comfortably.
That makes it difficult to establish a firm return date at this point.
Three weeks would obviously be the best possible outcome for Tampa Bay. Missing six weeks, however, would put Mayfield on the shelf for a significant portion of the season.
The Buccaneers Need to Prepare Accordingly
Tampa Bay cannot operate under the assumption that Mayfield will return after three weeks.
The Buccaneers need to prepare for the possibility that their starting quarterback could miss six weeks. That means Jalon Daniels could have a much larger role than initially expected.
The good news is that the MRI revealed no additional ligament or tendon damage.
The bad news is that Mayfield still has a significant injury that could keep him out for more than a month.
For the Buccaneers, hoping for three weeks is understandable. Preparing for six weeks is necessary.
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