The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have released a concerning injury report as they approach the end of the NFL season. Quarterback Baker Mayfield is among the eight players currently sidelined due to various injuries, raising alarm among fans as the team battles for playoff contention.
Mayfield is dealing with both a knee issue and an unspecified problem with his right shoulder. This latest injury comes on the heels of a previous setback; he exited the Buccaneers’ game against the Los Angeles Rams on November 5, 2025, due to a left shoulder injury. The severity of Mayfield’s current shoulder issue remains unclear, but its proximity to the end of the season adds to the urgency for the team.
In addition to Mayfield, the Buccaneers are grappling with injuries to several key players. Tight end Devin Culp and outside linebacker Anthony Nelson are both managing knee injuries with no set return dates. Defensive backs Jamel Dean and Benjamin Morrison are also on the injury list, with Dean suffering from a shoulder issue and Morrison nursing a hamstring injury.
The offensive line is similarly affected; tackles Luke Goedeke and Tristan Wirfs are out due to ankle and toe injuries, respectively. Defensive lineman Calijah Kancey is also recovering from a pectoral injury, further straining the team’s depth.
The Buccaneers began the 2025 NFL season strongly, achieving a record of 5-1 in their first six games. However, they have struggled significantly in their last ten outings, posting a disappointing 2-8 record. This downward trend places them in jeopardy of missing the playoffs, a situation that has drawn criticism from Head Coach Todd Bowles.
After a recent loss to the Miami Dolphins, Bowles expressed his frustration with the team’s performance, particularly regarding the quarterback position. He stated, “We’ve got to be better at the quarterback position. And we’ve got to be better at the signal-calling position and we’ve got to be better blocking it.”
With the playoffs on the line, the Buccaneers face a critical period ahead as they aim to regroup and address their injury woes. As the team prepares for their next matchup, the health of Baker Mayfield and other injured players will be pivotal in determining the Buccaneers’ fate this season.
