What happened: Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield will sit out a third consecutive contest following the thumb dislocation he sustained in Week 3, per Tom Pelissero. Team officials hold optimism that he will be ready to return to the lineup next week.

Why it matters: Getting Mayfield back on the field next week would align with Tampa Bay's first NFC South matchup of the 2026 regular season against Carolina. The Buccaneers offense managed 419 total yards and 24 points against Dallas in Week 5 while navigating his multi-week absence.

What to watch: Mayfield's practice participation will be monitored next week ahead of the division road opener at Carolina.