Baker Mayfield’s Injury Raises Stakes for Bucs as Cardinals Prepare for Uncertainty
The tension is palpable as the Arizona Cardinals and Tampa Bay Buccaneers gear up for their Week 13 clash, with a star-studded injury report casting shadows over both teams. At the forefront are Baker Mayfield and Marvin Harrison Jr., both of whom have become focal points of Wednesday’s injury updates. Together, the two teams have a staggering 27 players listed, including ten who did not participate in practice due to various injuries. As Tampa Bay conducted a walk-through, their injury report remains an estimation, adding an extra layer of unpredictability.
Cardinals Injury Update
Among the Cardinals’ notable absences, Kelvin Beachum (groin), Baron Browning (concussion), and Kei’Trel Clark (personal reasons) have been ruled out for the upcoming game. Additionally, Emari Demercado (ankle), Will Hernandez (hip/knee), Walter Nolen (knee), Josh Sweat (eye), and Dadrion Taylor-Demerson (ankle) did not participate in practice.
On a slightly more positive note, Marvin Harrison Jr. returned to the field after missing two games due to appendicitis. However, the injury to Josh Sweat, Arizona’s sack leader, after an eye poke in the last game, will be closely monitored as the week progresses. Nolen has already been confirmed as out for the game.
Buccaneers Injury Update
For the Buccaneers, the situation is equally concerning, particularly with the status of Baker Mayfield, who did not practice due to a shoulder injury sustained on the final play of the first half against the Rams. Anthony Nelson also joined the ranks of non-participants with rib issues.
Limited participation in practice was noted for Ben Bredeson (hamstring), Jamel Dean (hip), Chris Godwin (fibula), Benjamin Morrison (hamstring), Haason Reddick (ankle/knee), and Tristan Wirfs (shoulder). On a more encouraging note, players such as Bucky Irving (shoulder/foot), Sterling Shepard (shoulder), and Rashad Wisdom (quad) were full participants.
Coaching Perspectives on Mayfield’s Injury
Mayfield’s injury adds a layer of complexity for Buccaneers’ head coach Todd Bowles, who indicated that Teddy Bridgewater will likely take the majority of the first-team reps in practice this week. The uncertainty surrounding Mayfield’s status has left the coaching staff preparing for multiple scenarios.
“His toughness is undeniable,” said Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon, reflecting on Mayfield’s competitive spirit. “If he can play, I’m sure he’ll give it a go. But it’s crucial to have two plans ready.” Gannon acknowledged that while the Buccaneers’ game plan may not shift dramatically, the style and execution would vary significantly depending on whether Mayfield or Bridgewater is under center.
Gannon’s familiarity with Bridgewater, stemming from their time together in Minnesota, adds another layer to the preparations. “Teddy B. Yeah, we drafted him in 2014,” Gannon recounted. “He had a playoff run and then faced a tough injury. He has elite leadership traits, and the guys respond to him well.”
Looking Ahead
As the Cardinals and Buccaneers prepare for their matchup, they have two more days of practice ahead of them. Official designations, such as questionable, out, or doubtful, will be communicated after Friday’s sessions, adding to the anticipation and uncertainty surrounding this pivotal game. The stakes are high, and both teams will need to navigate the challenges posed by injuries as they aim for victory.
