Baker Mayfield’s Pro Bowl snub had fans shaking their heads. But now the Tampa Bay Buccaneers face an even bigger concern. They are just a win away from the playoffs and the Sunday matchup against the Saints is crucial. Will Mayfield rise to the challenge, or will these setbacks prove too much to overcome?

Star rookie running back Bucky Irving is nursing injuries, and Mayfield’s offense might lean on a patchwork lineup against the Saints. Irving is nursing shoulder and shin injuries, limiting him in practice this week. Irving’s 113-yard effort pushed him past 1,000 rushing yards during the last game against the Panthers. And he has been a cornerstone of Tampa’s offense. Missing him at full strength could put additional pressure on Mayfield to carry the team’s playoff hopes.

Irving has been a key offensive weapon. He has gained over 1,420 scrimmage yards with seven touchdowns. But it’s not just about Irving being limited. Two players are working their way back from knee injuries: tight end Cade Otton and safety Antoine Winfield Jr. Both were upgraded to limited practice on Thursday, but their status for Sunday remains uncertain. The Bucs need Otton’s blocking and Winfield’s defensive leadership to secure a must-win game.

Tampa Bay has been in excellent form lately. They won five of their last six games. However, the Saints aren’t pushovers, either. Even without Alvin Kamara (groin) and Derek Carr (hand), they boast a solid defense. Tampa Bay’s offensive line, featuring a limited Tristan Wirfs, must hold up against a New Orleans front capable of derailing Mayfield’s timing.

While Mayfield prepares for this challenge, his Pro Bowl snub adds another layer to the story. The snub has sparked debate, given his standout season numbers.

A Pro Bowl snub that stings

Mayfield was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week twice in the past three weeks. He is playing like a man possessed, and the Bucs are looking dangerous. However, Mayfield didn’t make the NFC’s Pro Bowl roster. Despite throwing thirty-nine touchdowns and ranking third in passing yards. The competition was fierce, but many felt Mayfield deserved a spot.

Instead, rookies like Jayden Daniels and veterans Jared Goff and Sam Darnold grabbed the spots. Especially with Tampa Bay one win away from clinching the NFC South. Mayfield’s numbers are even more impressive considering injuries to key receivers, including Chris Godwin and Mike Evans. Emily Mayfield, his wife, shared her thoughts subtly on Instagram.

She congratulated Pro Bowlers Tristan Wirfs and Vita Vea. The post highlights the bittersweet nature of the situation, as Mayfield’s contributions haven’t translated to league-wide acknowledgment. Mayfield’s focus, however, remains sharp.

In football, setbacks are inevitable. This Saints game could serve as Mayfield’s personal statement, a chance to show why he belongs in the Pro Bowl conversation. A win would not only boost Tampa’s playoff chances, it would cement Mayfield’s season as one of his best yet.

The Saints-Bucs clash is shaping up to be more than just another regular-season finale. For Mayfield, it’s about proving his worth, injuries or not.