The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to welcome back their starting quarterback, Baker Mayfield, for their Week 7 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed on Friday that Mayfield has fully practiced and is ready to return after missing the last three games due to a dislocated right thumb suffered in Week 3 against the Minnesota Vikings.

In preparation for his return, Mayfield will wear a specially designed glove featuring a restrictive plate on the back of his thumb, which prevents it from bending incorrectly. The innovative design comes from Nick Bond, a clubhouse attendant for the Tampa Bay Rays, who modified a wide receiver's glove to include additional support.

Mayfield stated, "(It's) not restricting because it's on the backside. For me, just getting used to it. I don't feel the difference. It's just like me wearing a glove."

During Mayfield's absence, undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels took over as quarterback, leading the team to a 1-2 record. In his three starts, Daniels completed 60 of 95 passes for 501 yards, with three touchdowns and four interceptions, while also rushing for 117 yards on 19 carries.

Before his injury, Mayfield had a challenging start to the season, completing 63.5% of his passes with an average of 6.4 yards per attempt, tallying two touchdowns and two interceptions.