The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are currently clinging to a slight lead in the AFC South, despite taking a drubbing at the hands of the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, 34-7. The Bucs (6-5) will look to bounce back at home in Week 13 when they host the Arizona Cardinals (3-8).
They will receive a big boost in the form of quarterback Baker Mayfield, who reportedly looked healthy in practice this week as he tries to return from a sprained left shoulder.
MORE: Buccaneers' Bucky Irving finally cleared for takeoff vs. Cardinals
On social media, Buccaneers beat writer Rick Stroud posted what head coach Todd Bowles discussed regarding his signal caller's overall outlook for this weekend.
"He did really well," Bowles told the media on Friday. "He [was] very limited on Wednesday, he did a little more yesterday, and he moved around perfectly today."
Mayfield has great timing for Tampa
Mayfield being back in the mix will be key, as Tampa Bay will need to finish strong down the stretch if they want to win the NFC South. Bryce Young and the rapidly improving Carolina Panthers are right on thie heels at 6-6. The Panthers will take on Los Angeles rams this weekend.
For Mayfield, it's a chance to lead to the playoffs, after accomlishing that feat three times previously: Once with the Cleveland Browns in 2020 and twice with the Buccaneers in 2023 and 2024. He joined Tampa Bay as a free agent in March 2023.