Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans can breathe easy! Quarterback Baker Mayfield has avoided a worst-case scenario after suffering a painful left shoulder injury right before halftime in Sunday night’s game.

Mayfield left the game after crumpling to the ground following a deep pass attempt near the end of the second quarter and did not return for the second half. This immediately raised major concerns for the Buccaneers’ season, as the team is firmly in the mix for an NFC playoff spot.

However, subsequent testing has provided excellent news. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Mayfield’s Monday MRI revealed only a low-grade sprain in his non-throwing shoulder, meaning he avoided structural damage and is on track for a potential return much sooner than initially feared.

#Bucs QB Baker Mayfield, who went down on Sunday with a sprained left shoulder, has a low-grade sprain, source said following the MRI. Good news with an eye toward next week. pic.twitter.com/eBMsZ3up5f

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 24, 2025

This is a huge win for Tampa Bay. Mayfield’s importance to the offense cannot be overstated. Before the injury, he was playing at an MVP-caliber level this season, demonstrating improved decision-making and strong command of the offense.

Through Week 11, he has completed 62.7 percent of his passes for 2,406 yards with 18 touchdowns and only five interceptions. These numbers rank him among the league’s most efficient quarterbacks.

The Buccaneers’ coaching staff will monitor his pain tolerance and range of motion throughout the week. While his status for the next game remains unclear—Teddy Bridgewater would start if Mayfield misses time—the fact that he avoided a serious injury and remains on track for a potential return next week is the best possible news for a team pushing through the final, critical stretch of the season.

The Buccaneers will host the Arizona Cardinals next Sunday.