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Big Emeka Egbuka Injury Update Drops Before Buccaneers-Jets

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Sep 20, 2025 1:03 PM ET

Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka has jumped out as a huge contributor to head coach Todd Bowles' offense.

Over the past two games, he's racked up eight receptions, 96 yards and three touchdowns on 13 targets. He's quickly become one of the most effective rookies in the NFL.

However, his availability for the Buccaneers' Sunday matchup against the New York Jets has been unclear. On Friday's injury report, Tampa Bay listed him as questionable due to a hip-groin injury.

Considering fellow wide receiver Chris Godwin has already been ruled out, not having Egbuka on the field would be a huge loss.

To make matters even more concerning, a player potentially missing games so early in their career due to injury raises concerns about their durability.

Luckily, though, on Saturday, ESPN senior NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler posted on X that Egbuka is expected to play against the Jets despite still being questionable.

#Bucs WR Emeka Egbuka, who is questionable (hip, groin), is expected to play Sunday vs. #Jets, per sources.

The rookie has three touchdowns through two games.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 20, 2025

That's great for the Buccaneers offense and especially quarterback Baker Mayfield, who has opened up on his early connection with the rookie wide receiver.

"I just think the way he carries himself, I've told you guys, it wasn't a front," Mayfield said during his Week 1 postgame press conference. "You saw it live today, in person. He's the real deal. True professional. Doesn't play like a rookie. Doesn't act like a rookie. His head is never spinning. He made some unbelievable catches and plays today for us. Obviously, going to continue to lean on him."

Tampa Bay could be in for a big game against a new York defense that has struggled to start the season. The Jets currently rank 23rd in total yards per game allowed (337) and 30th in points per game allowed (32).

Having Egbuka gives the Buccaneers an even better chance to come out on top and start the season 3-0. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at Raymond James Stadium and will be aired on Fox.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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