The Buccaneers are getting some much-needed reinforcements at just the right time.
Ahead of Thursday night’s divisional clash with the Falcons, Tampa Bay has activated wide receivers Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan from injured reserve. That’s a big development for an offense that’s been stuck in neutral during a three-game skid where they've managed just 47 total points.
Evans, who fractured his collarbone back in Week 7, has been sidelined for nearly two months. McMillan, a rookie with plenty of upside, has yet to see the field this season due to a neck injury.
Both were listed as questionable on the final injury report, but the fact that they’ve been activated is a strong indicator the Bucs expect them to suit up. Official word will come 90 minutes before kickoff, but it’s trending in the right direction.
If both are active, it’ll mark the first time since Week 7 that Evans, McMillan, and Chris Godwin are all available in the same game. That trio gives Tampa Bay a much more dynamic look on the outside-something they’ve sorely missed during this recent slump.
This isn’t just about getting bodies back on the field. It’s about timing.
The Bucs are heading into Week 15 tied with the Panthers atop the NFC South, and they’ll face Carolina twice over the final three weeks. Every snap matters now, and having Evans and McMillan back in the mix could be the difference between a playoff push and a disappointing finish.
To make room on the roster, Tampa Bay waived defensive lineman C.J. Brewer and wide receiver Ryan Miller.
In a tight division race, the Bucs are betting on their playmakers to help them turn the corner. With Evans, McMillan, and Godwin potentially all lining up together again, the offense might finally have the firepower to get back on track.