Baker Mayfield has thrown just two passing touchdowns through three 2026 regular-season games for the Buccaneers, who sit at 1-4 amid offensive line struggles that produced 13 sacks in his starts. A dislocated right thumb sustained late in Week 3 has sidelined the 31-year-old for at least the past two weeks, with rookie Jalon Daniels starting and Tampa securing its first win in Week 5. Mayfield’s early efficiency metrics rank near the bottom among qualified quarterbacks, a sharp drop from his 26 touchdown campaigns in 2025 and 41 in 2024. Recovery updates indicate possible return around Week 7 or later depending on grip strength, which will determine remaining games and volume in a schedule featuring several NFC South matchups. Team rushing production and defensive performance will also influence passing opportunities for the remainder of the season.