Back-up Teddy Bridgewater has called Baker Mayfield a “tough guy” after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback played on with a shoulder sprain before being placed during Sunday’s 37-7 NFL defeat to the Los Angeles Rams.
Mayfield did not re-emerged for the second half after attempting a Hail Mary at the end of the first, having earlier been examined following a second-quarter touchdown throw to Tez Johnson.
“You never want to see guys get injured, especially your leader,” said Bridgewater, who finished with nine completions in 15 attempts for 62 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions and has a 33-32 record as a starter.
“But Bake’s a tough guy. He tried to come back out there today and tough it out for the guys. That says a lot about him and says a lot about this team.”
Baker Mayfield was in discomfort after attempting a Hail Mary to end the first half.
🎥 @SNFonNBC | H/T @AggregateSports pic.twitter.com/lpSQN53jiw
— The Athletic NFL (@TheAthleticNFL) November 24, 2025
Baker Mayfield injury: How long is QB out for?
While the Bucs awaited the results of a scan on Mayfield on Monday, NFL reporter Adam Schefter said they are “not ruling out” the 30-year-old for the visit of the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.
“Teddy will play if [Mayfield’s] out for some time,” confirmed head coach Todd Bowles after the game, praising Bridgewater for “performing well under pressure”.
“We’ll bring up Connor [Bazelak] behind him and go from there. We’re confident in what Teddy can do with a full week of practice taking every snap and every play. We think we’ll be fine.”
Teddy Bridgewater: Tampa Bay Buccaneers backup wants ‘impact’
“I’m very confident,” said Bridgewater. “If it’s my number, I’ve just got to answer the bell. I’m going to take this one day at a time.
“I’ve just got to continue to prepare the way I’ve been preparing all year and, if my number gets called, I’ve just got to go play.
“When I’m out there, it’s fun. I always tell myself ‘I’m not even supposed to be here right now.’
“So when I get the opportunity to go out there and play, I want to make sure I make some kind of lasting impact – whether it’s on the field or off.”
