Is Baker Mayfield Playing Today vs Cardinals? Latest Update Explained

Baker Mayfield is expected to play today, November 30, 2025, when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers face the Arizona Cardinals. The quarterback left last week’s game with a sprained non-throwing shoulder, but multiple reports indicate he will start. This comes as the Bucs try to end a three-game skid in the NFC South race.

Mayfield’s availability mattered all week because he missed the second half against the Los Angeles Rams. ESPN reported that he is on track to play, easing concerns about the team turning to veteran backup Teddy Bridgewater. Tampa Bay enters this matchup needing stability at quarterback.

Baker Mayfield Injury Status Today

Mayfield suffered a sprain in his left shoulder during last week’s loss. The injury forced him to miss the entire second half, raising questions about his readiness for Week 13. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Mayfield is expected to play despite the injury. This aligns with signs from team personnel that he responded well in practice.

The Buccaneers have struggled recently, falling into a three-game losing streak. Mayfield’s presence gives the offense more rhythm, especially in early drives. He has been the team’s primary stabilizer this season, regularly delivering efficient production under pressure.

Bridgewater was the contingency plan if Mayfield could not go. He stepped in last week and played his first meaningful snaps in years. But the Buccaneers prefer to stay with their starter as long as he is medically cleared.

Team officials have not expressed long-term concern. Reporters from AP and ESPN noted that Mayfield’s injury is manageable and not expected to cause extended absence. With playoff positioning tightening, Tampa Bay is relying on continuity to stay above Carolina in the division standings.

How Mayfield’s Return Shapes Today’s Game

Mayfield’s return offers Tampa Bay a needed boost in leadership and stability. The Cardinals have been competitive on defense, making quarterback efficiency important for the Buccaneers. A healthy Mayfield improves Tampa Bay’s ability to sustain drives and control tempo.

Short-term, this keeps the offense flexible. Long-term, it prevents a quarterback rotation that could disrupt timing with receivers. His playing through injury also signals urgency inside the locker room as the Bucs try to avoid dropping further in the standings.

Mayfield is expected to start today. His status reinforces Tampa Bay’s commitment to continuity as they try to rebound against Arizona.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Baker Mayfield playing today?

Yes. Reports indicate Baker Mayfield is expected to play today against the Cardinals despite a shoulder sprain. He was cleared after responding well in practice.

Q2: What injury does Baker Mayfield have?

He is recovering from a sprain in his non-throwing shoulder. The injury occurred in last week’s game against the Rams.

Q3: Who would start if Mayfield could not play?

Teddy Bridgewater would start if Mayfield were unable to go. He played in relief last week in the second half.

Q4: Does this affect Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes?

Yes. The Buccaneers are trying to stop a three-game skid. Stability at quarterback is important as they stay just ahead of Carolina in the NFC South.

Q5: Should fans expect any limitations?

Minor limitations are possible due to the shoulder sprain. However, reports say Mayfield should be available for his full role.