Jalen McMillan Set to Make Season Debut, But Don’t Expect a Breakout Just Yet
After spending the entire season on the shelf, Jalen McMillan is finally on track to suit up for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The rookie wide receiver, who suffered a neck injury during the preseason, was officially activated from injured reserve on Wednesday-just in time for the Bucs’ Thursday night matchup against the Atlanta Falcons.
That move alone speaks volumes. While McMillan still carries a questionable tag heading into the game, the activation signals that Tampa Bay expects him to be available. The team wouldn’t burn his return designation if they didn’t think he was ready to contribute in some capacity.
But here’s the key: contribute doesn’t necessarily mean produce-at least not in a way that’s going to shake up the box score.
What to Expect from McMillan in His Return
Let’s start with the obvious: McMillan hasn’t played a single snap of regular-season football. He’s logged six straight limited practices, which is encouraging, but that’s a far cry from being in midseason form. There’s going to be rust, and there’s going to be a ramp-up period.
Even if he’s active, don’t expect a full workload. The Bucs are likely to ease him in, especially considering the nature of his injury. Neck issues aren’t something you rush back from, and Tampa Bay will be cautious as they reintegrate him into the offense.
Then there’s the depth chart. McMillan returns to a receiver room that’s already well-stocked.
Mike Evans and Chris Godwin continue to command the lion’s share of targets, and rookie Emeka Egbuka has carved out a solid role of his own. That puts McMillan at best as the fourth option in the passing game-hardly a recipe for immediate impact.
The Bottom Line
The Bucs are getting a talented young receiver back at a crucial point in the season, and that’s a positive development for the team’s depth and long-term outlook. But for Week 15? McMillan is a wait-and-see player.
He’s got the tools, no question. But between the time off, the limited practice reps, and the crowded receiver room, this isn’t the week to roll the dice on him making noise.
So while it’s great to see McMillan back in uniform, fantasy managers and fans alike should temper expectations. The real story here is his return to health-not his return to stat sheets.