Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Bucs Have 2 Mike Evans Injury Plans vs. Giants

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Nov 22, 2024 8:35 AM ET

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are playing the cautious game with Pro Bowl receiver Mike Evans as the veteran inches closer to returning from a hamstring injury.

With head coach Todd Bowles stating pre-bye that the team would need to see how Evans practices after a rest, and now Baker Mayfield is saying Evans looked "good" in practice, it appears that he's trending in the right direction.

But as far as whether he will suit up against the New York Giants? Offensive coordinator Liam Coen isn't sure if we will see No. 13 at MetLife Stadium.

“We just don't know what his true availability will be,” Coen said. “If he is [playing], obviously, we'll gain some attention from the defense and understand maybe we get played a little bit similar to how people were playing us when he was going. So it's something we just need to be ready for, have a plan for. Love him if he's in there, and obviously we want to be able to get him going, that would be fantastic, but the guys are also ready to go if not.”

So in essence, the Bucs have two plans here. One with Evans. And one with "the guys.''

The Buccaneers offense has fared reasonably well in Evans' absence, but getting the Pro Bowler back will be crucial in the franchise's attempts at climbing back into the playoff picture, with the Atlanta Falcons leading the NFC South.

But with a favorable schedule that starts with the 2-8 Giants and the 3-7 Carolina Panthers, the Buccaneers have a chance to build some positive momentum and snap their four-game losing streak.

However, the team is clearly being cautious with Evans, and given how important he is to the offense, rushing him back might be the worst thing the franchise can do.

But everything is pointing in a positive direction, but the next 48 hours will likely determine if Evans plays and what kind of role we can expect him to have against the Giants.

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

More must-reads: