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NFL·PREVIEW·October 23, 2026 02:14 PM ET

Baker Mayfield set to face Panthers on Sunday after three-game thumb absence

Quarterback logged full practices Thursday and Friday

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 54m1 min read
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Three takeaways from Friday, including a Baker Mayfield reunion, injury updates, and more https://t.co/CazOKpYQgf Via @Panthers on X

What happened: Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield was a full participant in Friday's session and is slated to start Sunday's game against Carolina while carrying an official questionable tag for his right thumb. On Friday's Week 7 injury ledger, Jaelan Phillips has been ruled out for the matchup and Monroe Freeling is listed as questionable.

Why it matters: Mayfield passed on returning against Pittsburgh last week because he felt he was not at full strength and that Jalon gave the offense a better chance to win. Coach Todd Bowles cleared the veteran passer to reclaim the huddle this week as Tampa Bay looks to halt its slide in divisional play.

By the numbers: Tampa Bay sits at 1-5 (16th seed, L1 streak) following a 26-19 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Oct. 18, with Mayfield rejoining the lineup after missing three games.

What to watch: Tampa Bay and Carolina square off on Sunday, when final pregame active lists will confirm Freeling's availability alongside Mayfield's return.

Sources

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