August 1 Updates
Quarterback Baker Mayfield sat out practice on Friday and, after the two-hour workout concluded, Head Coach Todd Bowles said Mayfield is dealing with an issue to his right (throwing) hand but it is not a major concern.
"He's got a sore hand," said Bowles. "We gave him the day off. He's day to day and we're not worried about. It's just sore over the past few days. It's been an accumulation of days and we just felt we'd give him the day off."
After speaking with General Manager Jason Licht before Friday's practice, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero referred to Mayfield's injury as a contusion and noted that he did finish practice on Thursday after having his hand examined by team trainers.
Mayfield could get a solid block of days to rest his hand if the Bucs also keep him out of Saturday's practice. The players have the day off on Sunday and will only conduct a walk-through and hold meetings on Monday.
With the starter sidelined on Friday, fifth-year quarterback Kyle Trask and undrafted rookie Connor Bazelak absorbed all the reps. First-year man Michael Pratt, who is on the active/PUP list due to a back issue, remained unavailable. Bowles said Trask made the most of his chance to move into the number-one role.
"Probably the best he's looked since we've been in camp," said Bowles. "It was one of his better days – he made quicker decisions, he got the ball out of his hand, he did some good things. I'll probably have to see the tape to see the rest of it."
Bowles had previously said the Buccaneers were interested in adding a fourth healthy quarterback with Pratt's return uncertain. That search likely took on a bit more urgency after Mayfield was sidelined.
"Yes, we're working on that," said Bowles.
CLICK HERE to hear more of Tom Pelissero's thoughts on the Buccaneers on Thursday's Training Camp Report.
