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By Bryan Colbert Jr.
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be getting their starting quarterback back just in time for an important NFC South matchup.
Baker Mayfield is expected to return Sunday against the Carolina Panthers after missing three consecutive games with a dislocated right thumb.
Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles delivered an encouraging update Friday, telling reporters that Mayfield "looks like he's ready to go," according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
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The news comes after Mayfield returned to full participation in practice Wednesday and Thursday, an important step in his recovery from the injury he suffered during Tampa Bay's Week 3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
However, Mayfield's return will feature an unusual piece of equipment designed to protect his throwing hand.
According to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times, the Buccaneers received assistance from the Tampa Bay Rays in developing a customized glove for their quarterback.
Rays home clubhouse attendant Nick Bond helped create the protective equipment by modifying a receiver's glove and adding support to prevent Mayfield's injured thumb from bending backward.
The collaboration also involved Tampa Bay's training and equipment staff, who worked to ensure the glove provided protection without significantly affecting Mayfield's ability to throw.
Mayfield acknowledged Thursday that the adjustment has taken some getting used to but expressed confidence in his recovery.
"It's just like me wearing a glove," Mayfield said.
The quarterback's anticipated return comes at a critical point in Tampa Bay's season.
The Buccaneers enter Sunday's matchup with a 1-5 record after struggling to find consistency during Mayfield's absence.
Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels started the previous three games, posting a 1-2 record while filling in for the veteran quarterback.
Before suffering the injury, Mayfield had thrown for 615 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions through three games.
His return would provide Tampa Bay with an experienced leader as the team attempts to climb back into the NFC South race.
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The Panthers enter the matchup at 3-2, making Sunday's divisional contest particularly important for both teams.
Although Mayfield appears ready to return, his ability to protect the football and operate comfortably with the modified glove will be worth monitoring.
For Tampa Bay, getting its starting quarterback back would be a significant boost. Now, the Buccaneers will hope Mayfield's return can help turn around a disappointing start to the season.
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