Bucs OLB YaYa Diaby Suffers MCL Sprain

Edge rusher YaYa Diaby suffered an MCL sprain in Week 8, head coach Todd Bowles said. This is a Grade 2 sprain, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. A period of missed time is now in store as a result.

Bowles said (via Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times) a move to injured reserve is not being considered at this time. An IR stint would ensure at least a four-game absence, but there is optimism a return to action will take place prior to that point. Over the short term, at least, Tampa’s pass rush will be shorthanded.

Diaby has remained a key figure along the edge in 2026, his fourth season with the Bucs. The former third-rounder posted three sacks against the Panthers in Week 7, and that represents his only production on that front so far this year. Diaby topped seven sacks twice in his first three campaigns, however, and his absence will be felt as Tampa Bay’s defense looks to continue its elite run.

The Bucs totaled just 64 passing yards in the lopsided win over Carolina and Baker Mayfield did not complete a pass (on just three attempts) yesterday. Tampa Bay has found success through a sustained commitment to the running game and strong play on defense. Diaby returning to action in short order would of course be welcomed news. The team will play in Chicago on November 8 before its bye week.

Diaby is a pending free agent, so his ability to produce upon healing will be key in determining his future. In the meantime, Tampa Bay will move forward with an EDGE group led by rookies Reueben Bain and David Walker along with veterans Al-Quadin Muhammad and Anthony Nelson.