Baker Mayfield’s status for huge Week 18 game revealed

Aug 26, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) looks on against the Baltimore Ravens during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield suffered a rib injury in last week’s loss to the New Orleans Saints, but it does not sound like he is in danger of missing the biggest game of the season.

Mayfield was a full participant in practice on Friday, according to members of the media who were in attendance. The former No. 1 overall pick appeared to go through his normal routine.

That almost certainly means Mayfield will start in Sunday’s season finale against the Carolina Panthers.

The Bucs had a chance to clinch a playoff berth last week, but they played one of their worst games of the season. They can still win the NFC South by beating the Panthers, though that is not the only way for them to reach the postseason.

Tampa Bay can also win the NFC South if they tie and the New Orleans Saints lose to or tie the Atlanta Falcons. The Bucs would reach the playoffs as a Wild Card team if they tie, the Seattle Seahawks lose and the Green Bay Packers tie or lose.

In any event, Sunday’s game is the biggest one of the season for the Buccaneers. Mayfield has played extremely well for the majority of the year, so the Bucs are hoping he will shake off last week’s two-interception performance and help lead them to the playoffs.