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Undrafted Rookie Jalon Daniels Named Buccaneers Backup QB

PUBLISHED Aug 31, 2026, 10:25 AM ET

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles and team staff named undrafted rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels the primary backup behind starter Baker Mayfield. Thirty-two National Football League teams passed on Daniels during the 2026 NFL Draft following his collegiate career at Kansas. Entering training camp as the fourth-string quarterback, Daniels competed against Jake Browning and Connor Bazelak for the roster spot. During the preseason, Daniels completed twenty-seven of forty-four pass attempts for two hundred thirty-nine yards, recording one touchdown and zero interceptions. The Buccaneers subsequently released Browning and Bazelak during roster cuts. Baker Mayfield has remained the entrenched starter since joining Tampa Bay, though durability concerns persist after he played through multiple injuries during the previous season. Daniels secured the position through consistent execution, minimal turnovers, and dual-threat mobility during live exhibition matches, providing crucial depth for the franchise heading into the upcoming regular season.

By Michael Grant | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On April 25, 2026, thirty-two NFL teams passed on Daniels during draft.
On July 20, 2026, Daniels entered training camp as fourth-string quarterback option.
On August 10, 2026, Daniels performed efficiently during initial preseason scrimmage outings.
On August 23, 2026, Daniels completed twenty-seven preseason passes without throwing interceptions.
On August 30, 2026, Buccaneers coaching staff officially named Daniels primary backup quarterback.
On August 31, 2026, team management released competing quarterbacks Browning and Bazelak.
On September 13, 2026, Daniels will serve as active backup for opening game.
On November 1 2026 During November 2026, Daniels might secure playing time if injuries impact Mayfield.
On January 1 2027 Throughout January 2027, Daniels could experience postseason pressure in backup role capacity.
On September 1 2027 By September 2027, Daniels will establish permanent professional career value trajectory.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels secures primary backup quarterback position in Tampa.
Possible long-term US impact: Rookie backup security strengthens franchise roster depth for future seasons.
Most affected groups: Buccaneers fans, coaching staff, management, and competing quarterbacks.
Reader priority: Prioritize verified team announcements over speculative social media training reports.