Baker Mayfield is set to make his 46th consecutive start for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as they face off against the Arizona Cardinals. After injuring his shoulder in last week’s game, Mayfield had been sidelined with his left arm in a sling. Nonetheless, he made a full recovery and practiced on Friday, ensuring he is not on the inactives list for today’s match.
Bucky Irving Returns to the Field
Alongside Mayfield, running back Bucky Irving will also return to play after missing seven games due to shoulder and foot injuries. Both were listed as questionable earlier in the week but have been cleared for action.
Buccaneers Injury Updates
- Starting left guard Ben Bredeson is back after a two-game absence due to a hamstring injury.
- Cornerback Jamel Dean misses only one game with a hip injury.
- Outside linebacker Haason Reddick has returned after missing four games due to ankle and knee issues.
- Outside linebacker Anthony Nelson has recovered from a rib injury sustained last week.
- Rookie cornerback Benjamin Morrison will miss his second consecutive game due to a hamstring injury.
The Buccaneers announced their list of inactives at 11:30 a.m. ET, 90 minutes before the kickoff at Raymond James Stadium. They also elevated safety Marcus Banks from the practice squad, resulting in six players being named inactive.
Cardinals Facing Injury Challenges
The Cardinals will be without several key players for this matchup, having ruled out six on Friday. Notably, running back Emari Demercado will miss the game due to an ankle injury. He currently leads the team with 241 rushing yards. Starting right guard Will Hernandez has also been placed on injured reserve due to hip and knee injuries.
Cardinals Inactive Players
- RB Emari Demercado
- G Hayden Conner
- CB Elijah Jones
- CB Max Melton
- DL Walter Nolen
- S Dadrion Taylor-Demerson
Walter Nolen, a rookie defensive lineman and first-round draft pick, will also be absent due to injury. He recently returned a fumble for a touchdown in a close overtime loss against Jacksonville.
Overall, both teams have made adjustments to their rosters, setting the stage for an exciting contest in Week 13.
