As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare for Sunday’s clash against the Green Bay Packers, the team made a pair of roster moves that underscore the harsh realities of NFL depth. According to an official team announcement, the Bucs have elevated quarterback Easton Stick and linebacker Caden Fordham from the practice squad. Both players will suit up for their first game-day elevation of the 2026 season, providing crucial depth for a team suddenly thrust into uncertainty.
Mayfield’s Injury Opens Door for Rookie
The spotlight, however, shines brightest on rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels. With veteran starter Baker Mayfield sidelined for at least three weeks due to a dislocated right thumb, Daniels is set to make his NFL starting debut. The former Kansas standout has impressed coaches with his poise and dual-threat ability, but facing a Packers defense hungry for a statement win is a trial by fire. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, the Buccaneers are banking on Daniels’ composure and athleticism to keep their playoff hopes afloat in a critical NFC matchup.
Stick’s Journey from Practice Squad to Backup
Easton Stick, a former fifth-round pick by the Chargers in 2019, signed with Tampa Bay’s practice squad on August 31 after a stint with the Los Angeles Chargers. The 31-year-old brings valuable experience, having started four games for the Chargers in 2023. His elevation provides a seasoned safety net behind Daniels. Stick’s familiarity with offensive coordinator’s system—though limited—could prove vital if Daniels struggles or suffers an injury. For Stick, this is another chapter in a resilient career defined by perseverance.
Fordham’s Bumpy Road Back to the Active Roster
Linebacker Caden Fordham’s path to Sunday’s game has been anything but linear. Signed as an undrafted rookie free agent in May, he initially cracked the 53-man roster. However, on September 2, the Bucs waived him to make room for cornerback Kevin Knowles, whom they claimed off waivers from Kansas City. Fordham cleared waivers and rejoined the practice squad, where he has continued to grind. His elevation against Green Bay signals that the coaching staff values his special-teams prowess and linebacker depth.
What This Means for the Bucs’ Sunday Strategy
With Mayfield out, the Buccaneers’ offensive game plan will likely lean heavily on the run game and quick, high-percentage passes to ease Daniels into the fold. The Packers, led by their own defensive playmakers, will undoubtedly test the rookie’s decision-making. Having Stick available as a backup is a luxury many teams lack, but the Bucs hope they won’t need him. Defensively, Fordham’s elevation adds fresh legs to a unit that will need to contain Green Bay’s dynamic offense.
“This is a next-man-up league, and we have full confidence in Jalon and the guys we’re elevating,” a team source told Vulius Sports. “Easton and Caden have earned this opportunity.”
Fantasy and Betting Implications
For fantasy football managers, Daniels is a speculative streamer with upside thanks to his rushing ability, but temper expectations against a stout Packers defense. Stick’s presence doesn’t change the fantasy landscape unless Daniels falters. Bettors should note the Bucs are likely underdogs at home, with the total potentially dropping due to offensive uncertainty. As always, stay tuned to Vulius for the latest NFL insights and custom merchandise to rep your team.
Sunday’s kickoff from Raymond James Stadium is set for 1:00 PM ET. The Buccaneers (2-2) aim to stay above .500, while the Packers (3-1) look to keep pace in the NFC North. For Daniels, it’s the start of a potentially career-defining stretch; for Stick and Fordham, it’s a chance to prove they belong.
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