Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels earns Tampa Bay Buccaneers backup quarterback job

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 6:05 PM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels earns Tampa Bay Buccaneers backup quarterback job
Summary

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers named undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels as the primary backup quarterback to Baker Mayfield for the upcoming regular season. General manager Jason Licht confirmed the decision after Daniels outperformed veteran Jake Browning during the preseason. Daniels secured the roster spot by completing 27 of 44 passes for 239 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions, while contributing 37 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. The team opted to carry only two quarterbacks on the initial 53-man roster, marking a rare instance of an undrafted rookie securing a Week 1 backup role. Licht cited Daniels' poise and command throughout the summer as the deciding factors. The Buccaneers move forward with Daniels despite his lack of regular-season experience as they aim to compete for an NFC South title.

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By the Numbers
  • Jalon Daniels secured the backup role over veteran Jake Browning.
  • Daniels recorded one passing touchdown and one rushing touchdown during the preseason.
  • Tampa Bay opted to carry only two quarterbacks on the initial 53-man roster.
  • The team plans to move forward with the undrafted rookie for the start of the regular season.
Latest Updates
  • 6:05 PMYahoo SportsJason Licht’s praise shows just how much Jalon Daniels impressed
What they're saying
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Jason Licht’s praise shows just how much Jalon Daniels impressed

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