NFL Panic Meter: With Baker Mayfield out, Bucs' backup plan at QB might wreck their season

Key Points:

• The Tampa Bay Buccaneers named undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels as their backup quarterback, a risky move that became critical after starter Baker Mayfield dislocated his thumb, sidelining him for at least three weeks.
• Daniels will start upcoming games amid the Buccaneers' 0-3 start, with the team facing a potentially disastrous stretch that could worsen head coach Todd Bowles' and GM Jason Licht's job security.
• Concerns are rising about North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye's performance possibly being affected by a lingering shoulder injury from last season, which may explain his sharp decline early this year.
• The Cincinnati Bengals' defense showed early promise but reverted to poor form after allowing 30 points to the Steelers, raising doubts about their playoff prospects despite offseason improvements.
• Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud's production has dropped without top receiver Nico Collins, putting his future contract and the team's direction in question amid an 0-3 start.
• The Miami Dolphins face a major offensive setback after losing explosive running back De'Von Achane to a season-ending ACL injury, with the team's scoring and yardage already near the bottom of the league.
• The Los Angeles Rams have started 1-2 with key injuries to Puka Nacua and Myles Garrett impacting their performance, despite outgaining opponents in recent games, highlighting the importance of health for their success.