The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be getting closer to having Baker Mayfield back under center, and Wednesday's practice offered the most encouraging update on his recovery in weeks.
Mayfield returned to practice after missing three consecutive games with a dislocated right thumb suffered against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3. According to the Buccaneers' October 21 quote sheet, head coach Todd Bowles was pleased with how his quarterback progressed throughout the session.
"I think he's coming along fine. I think once he got warmed up, he started looking pretty good as practice went on. So, we'll continue to monitor it and see how he goes through the week," Bowles said.
Mayfield wore a glove on his throwing hand during practice, something Bowles
confirmed the quarterback had used before. The head coach also said Mayfield felt comfortable throwing with it, although the team still needs to determine how his thumb responds after a full day of work.
"We've got to see how he feels first, and then we'll go through that as we get through tomorrow and Friday. We've got to see how he comes out of it and, after a day, how the thumb responds," Bowles said.
Mayfield was listed as a full participant on Wednesday's injury report, another positive development as Tampa Bay prepares for its first NFC South matchup of the season against Carolina. However, practicing without restrictions does not automatically mean he will be cleared to play Sunday.
The Buccaneers have gone 1-2 in Mayfield's absence, with rookie Jalon Daniels handling the starting duties. Daniels has shown flashes, but Tampa Bay's passing offense has struggled to sustain drives and consistently create downfield opportunities.
Bowles expects to have a better idea of Mayfield's availability by Friday, when the team can evaluate how his thumb has handled multiple days of practice.
"I'll see what he looks like Friday, and I'll find out then," Bowles said.
For a 1-5 Buccaneers team, getting its starting quarterback back would be a significant development. Wednesday was a step in the right direction, but Mayfield's return remains dependent on how his throwing hand responds over the next two days.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Baker Mayfield's return takes a positive turn ahead of Week 7
