Coach Todd Bowles addressed the media on Monday, stating, "He's got a knee sprain. He'll be out a little while," confirming that safety Antoine Winfield Jr. would miss several games after the injury sustained against the Raiders. Bowles indicated that Winfield would be out for a couple of weeks as they assess his recovery and readiness for return, emphasizing the team's cautious approach to player health in the midst of a competitive season.
Bowles remarked on the condition of rookie running back Bucky Irving, stating, "If we can get it loosened up, he should be OK." Irving leads the Bucs and all NFL rookies with 1,035 scrimmage yards, and his status for the upcoming game is uncertain due to tightness in his back, raising concerns about the team's offensive capabilities.
The absence of key players is a significant concern, as indicated by Bowles regarding the safety position, "We've already been without our other starting safety, Jordan Whitehead, due to a torn pectoral muscle." The team faces challenges in maintaining their defensive strength with injuries piling up, affecting strategy as they aim for success in the remaining games.
In the wake of Winfield's injury, Kaevon Merriweather stepped up, tying for team-leading tackles and contributing a sack, showcasing the depth of the Buccaneers' roster. Coach Bowles praised Merriweather's performance, highlighting the importance of player readiness and adaptability in an injury-prone season.
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