Baker Mayfield Overcomes Injuries to Start Playoff Opener for Buccaneers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to begin their playoff journey with quarterback Baker Mayfield leading the way. Despite sustaining ankle and ribs injuries in recent weeks, Mayfield has been cleared to start and finish Monday night’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles. This determination showed the toughness Mayfield has displayed throughout the regular season, where he did not miss a game despite multiple ailments.

Mayfield’s availability for the wild-card game was uncertain, especially after being limited in practice sessions. However, he has battled through his injuries and will continue to do so in the postseason. The Buccaneers’ roster overall is in good shape, with only three players listed as questionable – Mayfield, linebacker K.J. Britt, and cornerback Josh Hayes – all of whom have been cleared to play. Tampa Bay has also taken advantage of the NFL’s new rule, having three quarterbacks on the active roster and designating John Wolford as the “inactive third quarterback” for insurance purposes.

The Buccaneers released their list of inactives, including running back Patrick Laird and outside linebacker Jose Ramirez, both of whom were elevated from the practice squad. The team made necessary adjustments to reach the game day limit of 48 players. Meanwhile, the Eagles’ inactive information will be announced shortly.

Mayfield’s presence on the field is a testament to his perseverance and determination. Despite being questionable in the previous week due to his ribs, he still played and is once again slated to start for the Buccaneers. Mayfield has been the consistent starting quarterback for Tampa Bay throughout the season, leading the team to a division championship with impressive numbers, including career highs of 4,044 passing yards and 28 touchdowns.

The Buccaneers, as the fourth seed in the NFC South, will face the fifth-seeded Eagles in their wild-card matchup at Raymond James Stadium. This game marks a significant moment for the Buccaneers, as Mayfield becomes the first starting quarterback not named Tom Brady to lead the team into a playoff game since 2007.