The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need a jolt heading into Week 7 of the 2026 NFL season. Tampa Bay is just 1-5 on the year and struggling on offense regardless of who is under center. Fortunately, quarterback Baker Mayfield could return in Week 7 to provide that spark on offense. But he may be without one of his top weapons.

Mayfield was a full participant at practice on Wednesday despite his thumb injury, per Buccaneers reporter Rick Stroud. However, wide receiver Emeka Egbuka did not participate due to multiple injuries.

Egbuka is in concussion protocol, which alone explains why he did not practice. On top of that, the young wide receiver is also dealing with a toe injury.

This does not bode well for Egbuka's chances to suit up in Week 7. He suffered his concussion against the Steelers last week and is still in concussion protocol. While it is possible to clear every step of concussion protocol in one week, it is not a common occurrence. Plus, even if that happens, Egbuka could always sit out with that toe injury.

Meanwhile, Mayfield's return is great news for Tampa.

The Buccaneers wanted to see if Mayfield could grip the ball before letting him return to action. His ability to fully participate at Wednesday's practice suggests he's on the right track.

Head coach Todd Bowles noted on Wednesday that he expects to make a decision at quarterback on Friday. If Mayfield is still not ready to return, then rookie Jalon Daniels will get another start.

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All of this comes on top of an illness that is running through Tampa's locker room. That illness forced Bucky Irving and Zyon McCollum to miss Wednesday's practice.

Buccaneers fans should keep their eyes peeled for Thursday's injury report to get more clues ahead of this weekend's divisional matchup.

Buccaneers at Panthers kicks off at 1 p.m. ET on Oct. 25 from Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.