The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are still alive in the NFC South race, and they might be getting a key reinforcement just in time. Defensive tackle Calijah Kancey, the team’s explosive 2023 first-round pick, has returned to practice this week, opening the door for a potential return before the regular season wraps up.
Kancey, who went 19th overall in last year’s draft, was placed on injured reserve back in mid-September after tearing his pectoral in a Week 2 win over the Texans. That injury sidelined a player the Bucs were counting on to be a disruptive force up front. But now, with his 21-day practice window officially open, the team is evaluating whether he can get back on the field in time to help them push for a playoff spot.
And make no mistake - the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Tampa heads into Sunday’s matchup against the Dolphins at 7-8, needing a win to stay in control of their postseason destiny. Beat Miami, and the Bucs will host the Carolina Panthers in Week 18 with the NFC South title on the line.
Lose, and things get dicey. If the Panthers, who currently sit at 8-7, beat the Seahawks on Sunday, they’ll lock up the division - and Tampa’s season will be over.
So, yes, this one’s big. And while Kancey’s return isn’t a lock, the fact that the speedy defensive lineman - a Miami native, no less - is back on the practice field is encouraging. If he’s able to suit up, even in a limited role, it would be a boost for a defense that’s been grinding through injuries all season long.
Speaking of injuries, the Bucs are once again navigating a banged-up roster. Star offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs (toe) and outside linebacker Anthony Nelson (knee) have both missed back-to-back practices. Wirfs could just be getting some rest, but Friday’s injury report will be key in determining their availability.
Wide receiver Chris Godwin, who was limited on Wednesday with a fibula injury, was downgraded to out for Sunday - a tough blow for an offense that’s leaned on him heavily. Meanwhile, veterans Lavonte David and Mike Evans were held out Thursday for rest. Tampa’s hoping that’s all it is, because come Sunday, they’ll need all hands on deck.
There was some good news, though. Tight end Devin Culp (illness), defensive lineman Logan Hall (knee), and wide receiver Kameron Johnson (knee) were all full participants in Thursday’s practice, signaling they should be ready to go.
On the Dolphins’ side, four players didn’t practice Thursday: center Aaron Brewer (neck), wideout Dee Eskridge (toe), safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (calf), and cornerback Isaiah Johnson (knee). Another four were limited, including linebacker Tyrel Dodson (chest), defensive tackle Benito Jones (back), kicker Jason Sanders (right hip), and tight end Darren Waller (rest/groin). Three others - safety Ifeatu Melifonwu, offensive lineman Andrew Meyer, and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle - were full participants.
For Tampa Bay, this is it. After a hot 6-2 start, the Bucs have dropped six of their last seven and are clinging to playoff hopes.
But with the division still within reach and the potential return of a high-impact defender like Kancey, there’s still a path forward. Sunday in Miami isn’t just another game - it’s the one that will define the Bucs’ season.