Egbuka Misses Practice as Bucs Prepare for Bears
Tampa Bay receiver Emeka Egbuka did not practice on November 4 as he works through a foot injury, leaving his status uncertain for the Buccaneers’ November 8 game against Chicago.
Emeka Egbuka’s availability for Tampa Bay’s matchup with the Chicago Bears remained uncertain after the receiver missed practice on November 4. He has sat out the Buccaneers’ past two games while dealing with a concussion and a foot injury. Coach Todd Bowles said last week that Egbuka had cleared concussion protocol, but the foot problem persisted.
Egbuka practiced on Thursday and Friday the previous week, then worked away from the main group with a trainer on Wednesday. Bowles described him as a 50-50 prospect the previous week and said the team would monitor how he progressed.
The Buccaneers are preparing to play Chicago on the road at 8:20 p.m. on November 8. Tampa Bay has attempted just 14 passes over its previous two games, but may need a stronger passing effort against the Bears. Quarterback Baker Mayfield is also recovering from a thumb injury.
Without Egbuka and Jalen McMillan, Tez Johnson and Ted Hurst have shouldered more receiver duties. David Sills, recently returned from injured reserve, is another option. Egbuka has recorded 28 catches for 240 yards and two receiving touchdowns this season, along with a rushing touchdown. Thursday’s practice could offer a further indication of whether he can play.
Players: Baker Mayfield, David Sills, Jalen McMillan, Emeka Egbuka, Tez Johnson, Ted Hurst III