Emeka Egbuka worked on the side with a trainer during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Thursday practice as he deals with a concussion and a foot injury. The second-year wide receiver missed Wednesday’s practice, leaving his status for Sunday’s matchup against the Carolina Panthers uncertain.
According to Greg Auman of FOX Sports, Egbuka was among several Buccaneers players whose health remained a concern during Thursday’s session. The report did not confirm whether the wide receiver would be available for the upcoming game.
The update comes after Tampa Bay lost 26-19 in overtime to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. The Buccaneers have four days between that defeat and their next game, giving Egbuka additional time to progress through the team’s preparations.
Egbuka’s status is particularly relevant as Tampa Bay prepares to face a division opponent. The Buccaneers enter Week 7 with a 1-5 record, placing them fourth in the NFC South. They will travel to face the Panthers on Sunday, Oct. 25, at Bank of America Stadium.
The wide receiver’s combination of concussion and foot injuries makes his practice participation worth monitoring. However, Thursday’s report does not establish a return timetable or confirm that he will miss Sunday’s game. His availability will depend on the team’s subsequent injury updates and the requirements for concussion clearance.
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Egbuka was not the only player whose status drew attention during Thursday’s session. Offensive lineman Luke Goedeke remained absent with a calf injury, while linebacker Christian Rozeboom was also missing because of a finger injury. Their participation could affect Tampa Bay’s preparations if either remains unavailable.
There was better news elsewhere. Cornerback Zyon McCollum, running back Bucky Irving and defensive lineman Calijah Kancey practiced after dealing with illnesses. Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. also continued practicing, although he remained in a non-contact jersey.
The Buccaneers will need to assess those situations before deciding which players are ready for Sunday’s game. For Egbuka, the next practice update should provide a clearer indication of his progress, but no final game designation has been established in Auman’s Thursday report.
