The Tampa Buccaneers are already in playoff mode, and the mindset is playing into the decision to start quarterback Baker Mayfield on Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals despite a left shoulder sprain.

Mayfield injured his non-throwing shoulder in the second quarter of Sunday night's 34-7 blowout loss at the hands of the Los Angeles Rams. He did not play in the second half as backup Teddy Bridgewater led the offense.

An MRI on Monday revealed a low-grade AC joint sprain, according to multiple reports.

"Every game in my eyes, is a must-win playoff scenario, but understanding that, you know, if I sit one game out, that (potentially) provides me to be healthier for down the stretch," Mayfield told reporters Wednesday. "And that's, that's how I'm gonna look at it."

Mayfield guided Tampa B

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