Todd Bowles and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are riding the momentum of three straight wins heading into Week 15. However, injury concerns have started piling up on both sides of the ball and will factor into Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Friday, Bowles confirmed that Tampa Bay will be without a series of key defensive pieces in this matchup, starting with All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr.
The Bucs head coach noted earlier in the week that the team would be without him for several weeks after a knee injury sustained in the win over the Las Vegas Raiders. Winfield Jr.’s absence is a major loss for the entire defensive unit, but the team’s additional woes in the secondary make this injury more alarming. Safety Mike Edwards will also be out for the second straight week as he nurses a hamstring injury.
Continuing down the safety depth chart, Christian Izien will be a game-time decision with a groin injury. In the middle, linebacker K.J. Britt will miss his second straight game as his ankle prevents him from getting back on the field. Related: “Overperformer?!” Bucs’ Irving Snubbed Offensively, running back Bucky Irving will be a game-time decision with issues in his hip and his back. A similar situation occurred ahead of last week’s game when Irving ultimately suited up, but saw very limited usage
If he is unable to go and does not play, Rachaad White may see more enhanced usage as he did against the Raiders. Tristan Wirfs and Mike Evans both practiced Friday though both are still listed as questionable. The Bucs and Chargers will kick off at 4:25 p.m. from SoFi Stadium with the game broadcasted on FOX.
