Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield's season may be in jeopardy after a left shoulder sprain sidelined him for the second half of the team's loss to the Rams. Head coach Todd Bowles provided an update on Mayfield's condition during the postgame press conference, revealing that he will undergo an MRI on Monday. Mayfield's injury was evident during the game, as he initially suffered a shoulder sprain in the second quarter after a series of scrambles and hard hits. Despite the injury, he continued to play until the end of the half, throwing a Hail Mary that was intercepted. However, he re-emerged from the locker room in the third quarter, wearing street clothes and a sling, indicating a more severe injury than initially thought. Bowles confirmed that Mayfield aggravated his injury on the last throw of the second period, leading to his early exit from the game. Backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater stepped in for the second half, throwing his first regular-season passes since 2022. Bowles expressed confidence in Bridgewater's abilities, stating that he knows what to do and performed well under pressure. The Rams' defense registered four sacks, putting constant pressure on both Mayfield and Bridgewater throughout the game. With Mayfield's potential absence, Bowles is confident in Bridgewater's ability to lead the team, and the team will bring up Connor Bazelak from the practice squad if needed. The outcome of the MRI will determine the extent of Mayfield's injury and the team's strategy moving forward.
