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Newer update on Jalon Daniels: Baker Mayfield injury update: out for Week 6 vs. Steelers (right thumb)

Jalon Daniels Set for First NFL Start for Buccaneers vs. Packers

Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels will start at quarterback for Tampa Bay on Sunday.

Jalon Daniels is expected to make his first NFL start when the Buccaneers face the Packers on Sunday. The undrafted rookie moves into the lineup because Baker Mayfield is dealing with a dislocated thumb.

What happened

The Buccaneers apparently settled on Daniels over Jake Browning for the backup role during training camp. Now, with Mayfield sidelined, Daniels gets a chance to run the offense earlier than expected.

Daniels spoke to reporters on Wednesday about the opportunity. He said Mayfield told him to stay composed, play his own game, and not try to be someone he is not.

The rookie also talked about a lesson from his time at Kansas. He said he wants to be a thermostat, not a thermometer, meaning he aims to set the tone for his teammates rather than just react to it. Daniels added that he tries to stay level-headed whether the team is feeling high or low.

Context

Daniels spent six years at Kansas and appeared in 49 games. He was not selected in the draft but beat out Browning for the No. 2 job in the summer.

The Buccaneers are 0-3, and the slow start has led to outside discussion about the direction of the team. A win Sunday would be a welcome change.

What’s next

Daniels will get his first real NFL action against the Packers. A strong showing could keep him in the conversation even when Mayfield is healthy, though the team has not said how long Mayfield will be out.

🏈 Fantasy impact

Daniels is a desperation play in superflex or two-quarterback leagues. He has no NFL track record and faces a Green Bay defense that is not a pushover. He is not worth starting in standard one-quarterback formats. The bigger question is whether his presence changes the value of Tampa Bay’s pass catchers. Mike Evans and Chris Godwin remain playable in most leagues, but their floor is lower with an unproven rookie under center. Bucky Irving and Rachaad White could see more work if the offense leans on the run. Monitor Mayfield’s status, but do not chase Daniels in fantasy.

Quick answers

Why is Jalon Daniels starting for the Buccaneers?

Baker Mayfield has a dislocated thumb, so Daniels is expected to start against the Packers.

Was Jalon Daniels drafted?

No, Daniels was undrafted after playing six years and 49 games at Kansas.

Sources

  1. Jalon Daniels aims to be "the thermostat" in his first NFL start (NBC Sports / ProFootballTalk)

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