Buccaneers Face Lions’ Den Without Three Key Starters

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face a challenging matchup against the Detroit Lions this Sunday, as head coach Todd Bowles announced that several key players will be unavailable. Defensive tackle Calijah Kancey, the team’s first-round draft pick in 2023, All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr., and right tackle Luke Goedeke have all been ruled out. Additionally, reserve cornerback Josh Hayes will also miss the game.

Cornerback Zyon McCollum, who exited last week’s game with a concussion, remains in concussion protocol but has practiced throughout the week. Bowles shared an update on McCollum and starting defensive end Logan Hall, who is dealing with a foot injury and missed the previous game. Both players are listed as questionable for Sunday’s game.

“Zyon has some tests to pass. We’ll see how Logan feels tomorrow,” Bowles remarked. “I feel good about [McCollum], but he’s got to pass the test, which I’m not involved in, so we’ll see.” The latest possible time for McCollum to clear the protocol and be eligible to play is on Saturday.

In addition to injuries impacting the defensive lineup, starting nickelback Tykee Smith missed practice on both Thursday and Friday due to illness. Bowles commented on Smith’s situation, stating, “He’s ill right now. We’ll see how he is tomorrow.”

Kancey’s injury occurred last Friday when he strained his left calf. Winfield sustained a sprained foot and ankle during last week’s matchup against the Washington Commanders. Goedeke was diagnosed with a concussion, and Hayes is dealing with an ankle injury.

With these injuries, backup tackle Justin Skule is set to start in place of Goedeke. Backup safety/nickelback Christian Izien will take over for Winfield. Izien stepped in at outside cornerback during the second half of last week’s game, showcasing his adaptability. If Smith is unable to play, Bowles indicated that Izien may shift to nickelback, and either Kaevon Merriweather could start at safety, or veteran Tavierre Thomas could be lined up at nickelback.

Bowles emphasized the importance of giving younger players experience, stating, “Guys make this team for a reason. Everybody’s gonna go through their lumps at some point. Better now than midseason, so we can give some young guys and other players some experience that could benefit us later on.” The team is preparing to adapt based on who is available.

Should McCollum be unable to participate, rookie undrafted free agent Tyrek Funderburk from Appalachian State would earn a starting position. The Buccaneers have also re-signed Keenan Isaac, who was previously with the Carolina Panthers after being released by the Bucs following the third preseason game. Bowles expressed strong confidence in both Funderburk and Isaac.

“They know the system,” Bowles said. “They’ve been through training camp and everything, so I’m confident they’ll play the calls and do what they’re supposed to do.”

The Buccaneers faced tough competition from the Lions last season, losing to them twice, including a 31-23 defeat in the NFC divisional round of the playoffs. This upcoming game presents a crucial opportunity for Tampa Bay as they attempt to improve and show resilience in the face of adversity.