Injury Update On Bucs WR Emeka Egbuka

While it only might be one game, it’s still a tough loss for the Bucs. Egbuka has been stellar in his rookie season, he leads the team with 27 receptions for 469 yards and five touchdowns on the year. He is currently fourth in the NFL in receiving yards and tied for third in the league in touchdowns.

What’s been fascinating about this start is that he’s done with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin Jr. in and out of the lineup. Evans played the first three games, then has been out. Godwin Jr. played in Weeks 4 and 5 as he tried to regain his form but miss last week’s game. Egbuka has scored game winning and go-ahead touchdowns, adding to the luster of his fantastic start. He didn’t play much in their Week 6 win over the 49ers, though, exiting before halftime.

Bucs Need Mike Evans Back

Understanding that Emeka Egbuka will be out for Week 7 against the Lions, it would be a big boost for Tampa Bay if Mike Evans were to return. Head coach Todd Bowles said that Evans is in play to practice this week. Evans is still their number one receiver and impacts how defenses game plan for him and the Bucs’ offense.

Tampa Bay got exceptional contributions last game with Kameron Johnson and Tez Johnson stepping up big time each scoring a touchdown while Sterling Shepard also made some important plays. The veteran Shepard looks so much better in his second year with the Bucs, and the Johnson’s have provided a spark to the group.

Could they still get the job done against the Lions without Evans? Yes, but it would make the game plan that much more different. If Egbuka is only out for a game or two, they can skate by with having Evans back and the rest of the wide receiver room until they get to the bye. In a way, it’s been receiver by committee for the Bucs this season. This will be another example of it.