Rookie Quarterback Steps Up
Undrafted Rookie Jalon Daniels to Make First NFL Start for Buccaneers
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Key Points
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Daniels said he wants to set the emotional tone for the team, telling reporters: “You can’t be a thermometer, you have to be the thermostat.”
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At Kansas, Daniels recorded 1,445 rushing yards and 23 rushing touchdowns in 49 games; his 23 scores tied the school record for career rushing touchdowns by a quarterback.
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Kenneth Gainwell also compared Daniels’ arm talent to Jalen Hurts, saying he can throw the ball downfield.
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Mayfield’s MRI showed no tendon or ligament damage, though the injury to his throwing hand was still expected to sideline him for at least some time.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will hand the keys to undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels for his first NFL start against Green Bay on Sunday. Baker Mayfield dislocated his throwing thumb in Week 3, leaving the 0-3 team without its starter for at least several weeks West Hawaii Today. Daniels earned the backup role over veteran Jake Browning after a strong preseason and brief game action.
From Kansas to the NFL: Daniels' Dual-Threat Skills
Daniels arrives with impressive college credentials that set him apart as an undrafted prospect. At Kansas, he recorded 1,445 rushing yards and 23 rushing touchdowns across 49 games. His 23 rushing scores tied the school record for quarterback rushing touchdowns. That mobility offers Tampa Bay a different offensive weapon than Mayfield.
Teammates See Michael Vick and Lamar Jackson Comparisons
Running back Kenneth Gainwell has drawn striking parallels to elite dual-threat quarterbacks. Gainwell compared Daniels' style to both Michael Vick and Lamar Jackson. He also praised Daniels' arm talent, saying he can throw the ball downfield like Jalen Hurts. These are rare comparisons for a rookie making his first start.
Daniels Takes Command Despite Pressure
The rookie expressed confidence when addressing the team's struggles. Daniels told reporters: "You can't be a thermometer, you have to be the thermostat." He wants to set the emotional tone for a team facing an 0-4 start. That leadership mindset will matter as much as his arm talent this Sunday.
Mayfield's Thumb Injury Clears Structurally
An MRI on Mayfield's throwing hand showed no tendon or ligament damage, a positive sign for long-term recovery. However, the injury was still expected to sideline him for at least several weeks. The Buccaneers must now rely on Daniels to keep their season alive while their starter heals.
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