📸 Image Credit: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ momentum took a hit on Monday as head coach Todd Bowles confirmed that two of the team’s key offensive weapons — running back Bucky Irving and wide receiver Chris Godwin — are “not in play” for next week’s Monday Night Football matchup against the Detroit Lions.
Irving continues to deal with foot and shoulder injuries, while Godwin remains sidelined by a fibula issue. Both players missed time in recent weeks, and their absences will again test the Buccaneers’ offensive depth heading into Week 7.
Injury Update: Irving and Godwin Set to Miss Another Week
Bucky Irving, who missed the Week 6 win over the Seattle Seahawks, is now expected to be out for at least another game. Reports indicate he could miss one or two more weeks before returning to full strength. The second-year running back was one of Tampa Bay’s breakout stars in 2024, surpassing 1,000 rushing yards as a rookie.
With Irving sidelined, Rachaad White will continue as the Buccaneers’ lead back. White has handled the extra workload well, showing consistency as both a rusher and receiver. Sean Tucker will again rotate in to provide relief, but losing Irving’s explosiveness and versatility remains a challenge for Tampa Bay’s offense.
Meanwhile, Chris Godwin will likely miss his second consecutive game. The veteran receiver, has struggled to stay on the field since recovering from ankle surgery that ended his 2024 campaign early. Godwin has appeared in only two games this season, leaving the Buccaneers’ receiving corps thin once again.
Egbuka’s Hamstring Injury Adds to Concerns
Tampa Bay’s injury troubles deepened on Sunday when rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka exited the 30–19 win over the San Francisco 49ers with a hamstring injury. Egbuka is scheduled to undergo testing on Tuesday to determine the severity of the injury, but early reports suggest he will miss some time.
Egbuka has been a revelation in his first NFL season, leading the Buccaneers with 27 receptions, 469 yards, and five touchdowns. His chemistry with quarterback Baker Mayfield has been one of the driving forces behind Tampa Bay’s strong start, and his potential absence looms large heading into Week 7.
The Buccaneers were already without Mike Evans (hamstring) and Jalen McMillan (neck) in Week 6. Evans has missed two straight games and could return to practice this week, while McMillan is out until at least Week 10 after a preseason neck injury.
Bowles Offers Hope on Evans and Defensive Returns
Amid the string of bad news, Bowles shared a few encouraging updates. The team is optimistic that Mike Evans, Benjamin Morrison (hamstring), and Zyon McCollum (thumb) could return to practice this week.
That extra time could prove crucial, especially with the Buccaneers benefiting from an additional day of rest before their Monday night matchup. If Evans is cleared, it would give Mayfield a much-needed veteran presence in an otherwise young and injury-depleted receiving group.
Who Steps Up Next?
With Irving and Godwin out, and Egbuka’s status uncertain, Tampa Bay’s offensive strategy will once again revolve around adaptability. Rachaad White will lead the backfield, while Kameron Johnson, Sterling Shepard, Cade Otton, and Tez Johnson are expected to shoulder the receiving responsibilities.
Despite the injuries, Baker Mayfield remains in control of one of the NFC’s most efficient offenses. Protected by one of the league’s top offensive lines, anchored by Tristan Wirfs, Mayfield continues to show poise and precision, keeping Tampa Bay’s offense productive even as key players fall around him.
Looking Ahead: Resilient Bucs Stay the Course
The Buccaneers’ 5–1 start has been built on resilience and depth — qualities that will again be tested against a physical Detroit Lions team. While losing Irving, Godwin, and possibly Egbuka limits their options, Tampa Bay has shown an ability to adapt week after week.
The return of Evans could provide a significant boost, but even without him, this Buccaneers team has proven it can compete with anyone in the NFC. As Bowles put it, the goal is simple: get healthy, stay consistent, and keep winning.
For a team dealing with more injuries than most contenders, Tampa Bay’s response will define just how far they can go this season.
