The Tampa Bay Buccaneers breathed a sigh of relief when quarterback Baker Mayfield returned to practice on August 5, following a brief absence caused by a hand contusion suffered on July 31. The injury, although concerning at first, was confirmed to be minor after scans ruled out any serious damage. This Baker Mayfield Buccaneers injury update is significant, as the team’s success heavily depends on the two-time Pro Bowl quarterback’s health and availability.
Mayfield missed two practices due to the injury, which temporarily sidelined him from training camp activities. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero,
“Mayfield underwent scans as a precaution and ruled out a more significant injury. He’s day to day.”
Known for his strong performances, Mayfield has thrown more touchdown passes (69) than any other quarterback in the NFL over the past season. He has led Tampa Bay to back-to-back NFC South Division championships and earned Pro Bowl honors in his first two seasons as their starter. Fox Sports NFL reporter Greg Auman confirmed Mayfield’s return, stating,
“Baker Mayfield is back practicing today after missing two days last week with a hand contusion.”
The Buccaneers are scheduled to open the preseason at home on August 9 against the Tennessee Titans, making Mayfield’s return particularly timely.
Injury Challenges Continue with Key Offensive Tackle Tristan Wirfs
While Mayfield’s injury was relatively minor, the Buccaneers face a more serious concern with left offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs. Known as one of the most dominant players at his position, Wirfs suffered a knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery. This setback threatens to impact Tampa Bay’s offensive line depth as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Wirfs’ importance to the team is underscored by his rare dual distinction as the first player in NFL history to earn All-Pro honors at both right and left offensive tackle. ESPN reported on July 9 that Wirfs is expected to miss training camp and may be sidelined for the first month of the regular season.
“Wirfs likely will start the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, sources confirmed to ESPN. If he is placed on the PUP list, Wirfs would miss at least Tampa Bay’s first four games.”
The 6-foot-5, 320-pound lineman has shown remarkable durability during his career, having missed only five games across five NFL seasons. He has been a three-time NFL All-Pro, four-time Pro Bowler, and a Super Bowl champion. Prior to the 2024 season, the Buccaneers rewarded Wirfs with a five-year, $140.6 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history.
Financial Stakes and Future Prospects for Mayfield
Beyond his physical health, Baker Mayfield’s contract situation adds another layer of significance to the Buccaneers’ plans. The 2025 season marks a crucial financial milestone in his career, as the Buccaneers guaranteed the final year of his three-year, $100 million contract. This adjustment raised the guaranteed money from $50 million to $80 million, signaling confidence in Mayfield’s ability to lead the team moving forward.
This move could also indicate Tampa Bay’s intention to negotiate a larger, longer-term deal if Mayfield continues to perform at a high level. Projections suggest a potential extension worth between $50 million and $60 million annually, underscoring the quarterback’s value to the franchise.
As the Buccaneers approach their preseason opener against Tennessee, Mayfield’s recovery and participation in practice provide a positive outlook. Keeping both Mayfield and Wirfs healthy will be key factors in Tampa Bay’s hopes for another successful campaign in the NFC South Division and beyond.