Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles announced that quarterback Baker Mayfield will not take the field in the upcoming preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers after delivering an impressive performance in a joint practice session on August 14, 2025. The decision comes as the Buccaneers prepare to protect their starter while maintaining the momentum built during training camp.

Mayfield’s preseason game status cast uncertainty for days, especially following his recent soreness in the throwing hand that caused him to miss practice sessions early in August. However, during the two-hour joint workout with the Steelers at Acrisure Stadium, he demonstrated sharp accuracy and command of the offense, prompting Bowles to keep him sidelined for the Saturday night game to avoid unnecessary risk.

Mayfield’s Sharp Showing in Practice Influences Game Day Decision

In the joint practices held on August 14, Baker Mayfield orchestrated the Buccaneers’ offense with precision, connecting confidently with receivers Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan, and Emeka Egbuka. The offense showcased its effectiveness in competitive drills, including two-point conversion attempts, where Tampa Bay’s offense converted three out of four plays against a tough Steelers defense. This compelling session reassured Bowles that Mayfield had regained full form without exposing him to game-day contact.

The head coach’s cautious approach toward Mayfield’s playing time reflects a clear strategy to manage the quarterback’s health carefully early in the preseason. <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL beat reporter Rick Stroud shared on X,

“After reviewing the tape of today’s practice, Todd Bowles just told me he believes Baker Mayfield played so well today in the joint workout with the Steelers he will NOT play in Saturday night’s game.”

—Rick Stroud, NFL Beat Reporter

ESPN‘s Jenna Laine confirmed this update, adding on X,

“Can confirm that Baker Mayfield will not be playing Saturday based off of his strong performance in practice today against the Steelers. @NFLSTROUD reported first. All other starters will play with the exception of Lavonte David and Mike Evans.”

—Jenna Laine, ESPN Reporter

Bowles also indicated that Teddy Bridgewater, expected to make his Buccaneers debut in the game against Pittsburgh, will see playing time, further underscoring the team’s depth at the quarterback position.

Roster Management and Injury Updates Shape Team Preparations

The Buccaneers are navigating their preseason roster with strategic caution. Safety Antoine Winfield Jr., a pivotal figure in Tampa Bay’s secondary since his rookie season, has been sidelined due to hamstring tightness, compelling Bowles to take extra precautions to preserve the player’s availability for the regular season. Additionally, quarterback Michael Pratt was waived injured on August 12 after missing all practices this year with a lower back injury, further highlighting the importance of roster durability.

Despite these challenges, Bowles remains confident in the practice squad and first-team players, emphasizing the team’s system that values consistency between practice and game performance. In his own words, Bowles said,

“No. We have a system where we play guys, and they’ll get that chance coming up. We get them better competition in practice as well, so they get to go against everybody. That doesn’t change how they play. If you make plays in practice, you make them in the game. A couple of guys made some plays late, but they’ve been practicing well, too.”

—Todd Bowles, Head Coach

Steelers’ Approach to Preseason Balances Evaluation and Player Health

Across the field at Acrisure Stadium, the Pittsburgh Steelers are also limiting the exposure of their key players. Head coach Mike Tomlin revealed that several cornerstone players, including newly signed quarterback Aaron Rodgers, will not participate in the upcoming preseason game. Rodgers’ highly anticipated debut will be postponed as Tomlin opts to prioritize player health during these preparatory stages.

Tomlin explained his mindset, stating,

“We’ll make our decisions on a week-to-week basis based on development and performance.”

He added,

“Different guys need different amounts of work to be ready.”

Reflecting upon the team’s cautious approach, Tomlin said,

“I’m going to play this preseason game very much like we did the first one. The same collection of guys that were held out the last time will comprise the guys that are held out this time.”

—Mike Tomlin, Head Coach

This measured strategy ensures the Steelers can evaluate their roster while minimizing injury risks to veterans such as DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith, T.J. Watt, and Cam Heyward, who will all skip the second preseason game.

Maintaining the Competitive Edge While Managing Risks

For the Buccaneers, the balance between proving their readiness on the field and protecting key personnel is delicate and palpable. With the NFC South title within reach, Bowles has constructed a resilient quarterback room over his three seasons in Tampa Bay, and this philosophy of depth and consistency has allowed the team to weather injuries and roster changes effectively.

Baker Mayfield’s recent performance provided the clarity Bowles needed to rest his quarterback during the preseason game without compromising preparation. The decision reflects a front office focused on long-term success rather than short-term showmanship.

As the preseason continues, Tampa Bay’s management of player health and strategic deployment will prove critical for their standing in the NFC. Meanwhile, the Steelers will maintain a similar approach, prioritizing evaluation and recovery over immediate exposure.

The upcoming preseason games, while limited in star power due to these decisions, will test the depth of both squads and reveal which players are ready to step forward. For Baker Mayfield, his strong showing in practice indicates a bright outlook ahead, even if it means sitting out this particular game.