Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka returned to the practice field Friday after missing the first two sessions of the week, giving the team an update on his recovery.
FOX Sports reporter Greg Auman reported Egbuka was practicing as he worked through concussion and foot injuries. The development followed consecutive did-not-participate designations on Wednesday and Thursday, when the rookie remained sidelined.
However, the return to practice did not mean Egbuka was cleared to play. Tampa Bay subsequently ruled him out for Sunday’s matchup with the Carolina Panthers, leaving the Buccaneers without one of their leading receiving options.
The concussion protocol requires medical clearance before a player can return to game action. Egbuka has a foot issue to manage, making the short turnaround before Sunday’s game especially challenging.
His absence matters for a Tampa Bay offense that has leaned on the rookie’s production this season. Through six games, Egbuka has recorded 28 receptions for 240 yards and three touchdowns, making him one of the team’s key targets.
The Buccaneers are navigating a quarterback decision, with Baker Mayfield working back from a dislocated thumb. Mayfield practiced fully throughout the week and was expected to start against Carolina, but Egbuka’s absence will limit one option available to him.
Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Tampa Bay activated wide receiver David Sills from injured reserve on Thursday, making him eligible to play Sunday. His availability could help the receiving group absorb Egbuka’s absence, alongside Chris Godwin and the team’s other wideouts.
The Buccaneers visit the Panthers on Sunday, Oct. 25, at Bank of America Stadium. Egbuka’s Friday appearance marked progress in his recovery, but his ruled-out status means Tampa Bay must prepare without him for the divisional matchup.
ALSO SEE:
- Best Week 7 NFL Picks: Experts’ Best Bets Against the Spread
- Caleb Williams Continues to Prove He Was Worth All the Hype
- Fantasy Football Week 7 Wide Receiver PPR Rankings: Which WRs Should You Start?
