The Buccaneers are back home this week, and not a moment too soon. Sitting at 6-5 and riding a three-game losing streak, Tampa Bay is looking to steady the ship against a struggling Cardinals team that’s dropped seven of its last eight. If there’s ever been a “get-right” opportunity, this is it.
Arizona comes in at 3-8 and reeling, while the Bucs are trying to stop the bleeding after losing four of their last five. And despite the recent slide, there’s a sense of cautious optimism in Tampa-because for the first time in weeks, the roster is starting to resemble its intended version.
Let’s start with the quarterback. Baker Mayfield, who’s been the heartbeat of this offense, is expected to suit up despite dealing with a shoulder sprain suffered in last week’s primetime loss to the Rams.
His availability was a question mark early in the week, but all signs point to him being under center on Sunday. That’s huge for a Bucs offense that’s struggled to find rhythm without his leadership and playmaking.
And he won’t be alone. Running back Bucky Irving is back in action for the first time since Week 4.
His return adds a much-needed jolt to the backfield, which has lacked explosiveness in recent weeks. Irving’s ability to bounce runs outside and catch passes out of the backfield gives the Bucs a versatile weapon they’ve been missing.
On the defensive side, Tampa gets two more key reinforcements. Edge rusher Haason Reddick is set to return after missing a month.
His presence off the edge could be a game-changer against a Cardinals offense that’s struggled to protect the quarterback. Cornerback Jamel Dean is also back after missing just one game with a hip injury.
His return stabilizes a secondary that’s been hit hard by injuries.
Still, the Bucs won’t be at full strength. Rookie corner Benjamin Morrison remains sidelined after suffering his third hamstring injury of the year during practice last week. He missed the Rams game and will be out again, a tough break for a young player who’s shown flashes when healthy.
The Bucs have everything to play for down the stretch. With the NFC South still very much up for grabs, every game matters-and this one, against a floundering Cardinals squad, is a golden opportunity to get back on track. The return of key starters gives Tampa a much-needed boost, and if they can capitalize on it, they’ll be in a strong position heading into the final month of the season.
The full list of inactives for both teams is below: