Breaking news from the Bucs just 90 minutes before kickoff. Star left tackle Tristan Wirfs, who was questionable for the game, has been cleared to play against the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte, North Carolina today. Wirfs was not listed among the inactive players for the game.
Wirfs’ quick return to the lineup after injuring his MCL demonstrates his remarkable strength and resilience. With Wirfs back in action, the Bucs’ offensive line, a key strength for the team, is at full strength for this crucial divisional matchup as Tampa Bay aims to climb the standings in both the division and the conference.
Players Inactive for Today’s Game vs. CAR (12/1):
#9 OLB Joe Tryon-Shoyinka#23 DB Tykee Smith#24 CB Tyrek Funderburk#82 TE Devin Culp#97 DL Earnest Brown IV
Elevated from Practice Squad:#11 QB Michael Pratt (Inactive)
— Buccaneers Communications (@BuccaneersComms) December 1, 2024
This news has sparked celebrations in Tampa Bay, with the team’s social media team capturing the excitement.
MOOD WHEN TRISTAN WIRFS IS ACTIVE pic.twitter.com/WE02sPUBii
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) December 1, 2024
Bucs Inactives
Bucs OLB Joe Tryon-Shoyinka and Lions QB Jared Goff – Photo by: USA Today
Two defensive starters are sidelined for the game. Joe Tryon-Shoyinka and Tykee Smith will not be playing, along with reserves Tyreke Funderburk, Devin Culp, and Earnest Brown IV.
Although Smith’s absence is significant, the Bucs have depth at the position. Christian Izien is likely to start in his place, alongside Mike Edwards who will step in at safety for Jordan Whitehead, who is on injured reserve.
This game marks Tryon-Shoyinka’s first missed game of his career. Anthony Nelson and Chris Braswell will see increased playing time in his absence, with Jose Ramirez also expected to contribute. Tryon-Shoyinka had been performing well in recent weeks before his injury, registering seven pressures and a sack in the three games leading up to his early exit in week 12.
Panthers Inactives
On the Panthers’ side, rookie Ja’Tavion Sanders and receiver Jalen Coker will not be available for today’s game.
#Panthers INACTIVES vs. Buccaneers
TE Ja’Tavion SandersWR Jalen CokerS Jammie RobinsonCB Shemar BartholomewCB Akayleb EvansOL Jarrett KingstonDT Jaden Crumedy
— Jared Feinberg (@JRodNFLDraft) December 1, 2024
In addition, newly acquired cornerback Akayleb Evans is inactive as he familiarizes himself with the team’s defensive scheme.
