Bucs Shake Up Inactives List Ahead of Key Clash with Panthers - Shepard Sits, JPP Returns
The Buccaneers are making a few notable changes to their gameday roster ahead of a pivotal Week 16 matchup against the division rival Carolina Panthers. With playoff positioning on the line, Tampa Bay is leaning on experience and depth - and one of the biggest headlines is the return of a familiar veteran.
Sterling Shepard Sidelined as Bucs WR Room Returns to Full Strength
Perhaps the most surprising name on the Bucs’ inactive list this week is wide receiver Sterling Shepard. The veteran has been a steady presence this season, logging an average of 35 snaps per game and stepping up when injuries hit the top of the receiver depth chart.
Early in the season, with **Chris Godwin Jr. **, Jalen McMillan, and Mike Evans all dealing with various ailments, Shepard found himself thrust into a larger role than originally planned.
But with the Bucs' top trio now healthy and active, Shepard's role has diminished. He was suited up last week but didn’t see a single offensive snap.
This week, the coaching staff opted to make him inactive altogether, despite dressing six other wideouts. It’s a clear sign that the Bucs are confident in their core group - and that Shepard’s contributions, while appreciated, are no longer essential in the current game plan.
Jason Pierre-Paul Activated - Veteran Pass Rusher Returns to Bucs Uniform
On the flip side, Jason Pierre-Paul is back in pewter and red. The 36-year-old outside linebacker has been elevated from the practice squad and will be active for the first time since rejoining the team just over a week ago. It’s a reunion years in the making: JPP last suited up for Tampa Bay in 2021, helping anchor the defense during their Super Bowl LV run.
The Bucs have been searching for more juice off the edge, and while Pierre-Paul isn’t expected to play a full slate of snaps, his presence could still be impactful. Expect him to rotate in on specific packages, especially in obvious passing situations. His veteran savvy, leadership, and familiarity with the system could provide a much-needed spark for a defense that’s been trying to find its footing late in the season.
And with Carolina missing a key piece on the offensive line, the timing couldn’t be better.
Panthers Down a Starter - Key Matchup Emerges on the Edge
The Panthers will be without starting left tackle Ikem Ekwonu, who’s sidelined with a knee injury. That’s a significant loss for Carolina, especially with the Bucs bringing some heat off the edge. Backup Yosh Nijman steps into the starting role, and he’ll have his hands full with a rotation that includes Yaya Diaby, Haason Reddick, and now, Jason Pierre-Paul.
This matchup could be a turning point in the game. If the Bucs' edge rushers can capitalize on the weakened left side of the Panthers’ line, it could disrupt Carolina’s offensive rhythm early and often - a crucial factor in what’s expected to be a tightly contested divisional battle.
Full List of Buccaneers Inactives vs. Panthers:
- **#3 LB Anthony Walker Jr. **
- #16 QB Connor Bazelak (3rd QB)
- #17 WR Sterling Shepard
- #38 S Rashad Wisdom
- #79 G Elijah Klein
- #82 TE Devin Culp
- #92 DL Elijah Simmons
Buccaneers Practice Squad Elevations:
- #91 OLB Jason Pierre-Paul
- #97 DL Adam Gotsis
Panthers Inactives Include:
- LT Ikem Ekwonu (knee injury) (Full list not provided here, but Ekwonu’s absence is the headline)
With the NFC South still up for grabs, every decision matters - and the Bucs are banking on veteran leadership and strategic roster moves to give them the edge. If Pierre-Paul can deliver even a flash of his former self, and the receivers stay healthy and productive, Tampa Bay could be looking at a fifth straight division crown. But first, they’ll need to take care of business in Carolina.