Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield will not play against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, October 18, 2026, in Week 6 of the NFL regular season because of a dislocated right thumb on his throwing hand.
Mayfield has been sidelined since suffering the injury during Tampa Bay’s Week 3 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. His absence against Pittsburgh marks his third consecutive missed game.
With Mayfield unavailable, the Buccaneers will turn to rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels as they look to secure a victory against the Steelers.
Why Isn’t Baker Mayfield Playing Today Against the Steelers?
Baker Mayfield is missing the Buccaneers’ Week 6 matchup against Pittsburgh because he is still recovering from a dislocated right thumb.
The injury affects his throwing hand, making it difficult for the quarterback to grip and release the football effectively.
Mayfield did not participate in practice Wednesday, Thursday or Friday leading up to Sunday’s game.
Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles confirmed Friday that Mayfield was not ready to return to action.
Tampa Bay’s medical staff is monitoring his recovery, particularly his grip strength and ability to throw comfortably.
What Happened to Baker Mayfield?
Mayfield sustained the thumb injury late in Tampa Bay’s Week 3 game against the Minnesota Vikings.
The dislocation has prevented him from returning to the field over the past several weeks.
Because the injury involves his throwing hand, the Buccaneers are taking a cautious approach rather than risking additional complications by bringing him back too early.
Who Is Starting at Quarterback for the Buccaneers Against the Steelers?
Rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels will start for Tampa Bay against Pittsburgh in Week 6.
Daniels is making his third consecutive start while Mayfield continues recovering.
The rookie helped the Buccaneers defeat the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5, completing 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards and one touchdown.
His performance has provided Tampa Bay with an alternative at quarterback during Mayfield’s absence.
Against Pittsburgh, Daniels will face another important test as the Buccaneers attempt to build momentum.
When Will Baker Mayfield Return to the Buccaneers?
Mayfield could potentially return in Week 7 against the Carolina Panthers, although the Buccaneers have not confirmed a specific return date.
His availability will depend on continued improvement in his right thumb, particularly his ability to grip and throw the football without significant discomfort.
Head coach Todd Bowles has indicated that it remains too early to determine whether Mayfield will be ready for Tampa Bay’s next game.
Until he receives clearance, Daniels is expected to remain the Buccaneers’ starting quarterback.
Buccaneers vs. Steelers Week 6: Date, Time and TV Channel
Here is everything fans need to know about Sunday’s NFL matchup:
- Matchup: Pittsburgh Steelers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Date: Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Kickoff Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida
- TV Channel: FOX
- Buccaneers Starting QB: Jalon Daniels
- Baker Mayfield Status: Out (right thumb injury)
The Buccaneers enter the matchup with a 1-4 record, while Pittsburgh comes into the contest at 3-2.
How Does Baker Mayfield’s Absence Impact the Buccaneers?
Mayfield’s absence presents a significant challenge for Tampa Bay’s offense.
As the team’s established starting quarterback, Mayfield brings experience, leadership and familiarity with the Buccaneers’ offensive system.
Without him, Tampa Bay must continue adjusting its offensive approach to accommodate Daniels.
The Buccaneers will likely emphasize protecting their rookie quarterback, establishing an effective running game and limiting turnovers against Pittsburgh’s defense.
A victory over the Steelers would provide an important boost as Tampa Bay attempts to recover from its difficult start to the 2026 season.
Will Baker Mayfield Play in Week 7?
Mayfield’s Week 7 status remains uncertain.
The Buccaneers will continue evaluating his recovery throughout the upcoming week before determining whether he can return against Carolina.
His practice participation and the team’s official injury reports will provide the clearest indication of his availability.
Final Thoughts
Baker Mayfield is not playing against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 6 of the 2026 NFL season because of a dislocated right thumb on his throwing hand.
The Buccaneers have ruled him out for Sunday’s October 18 matchup, leaving rookie Jalon Daniels to make his third consecutive start.
Although Mayfield could potentially return in Week 7 against the Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay has not announced an official timetable.
For now, the Buccaneers will continue relying on Daniels as they look to turn their season around.