The Bucs are hosting tryouts for wide receivers at One Buccaneer Place on Wednesday after losing their top two players in a tough defeat to the Ravens on Monday night, 41-13. Mike Evans re-injured his hamstring while attempting a touchdown catch in the second quarter and is undergoing an MRI on Tuesday to assess the extent of his injury. It is expected that he will be sidelined for a few weeks, possibly until the bye week in Week 11.
However, the more devastating blow was to Chris Godwin, the team’s leading receiver and one of the NFL’s top receivers. Godwin dislocated his ankle with 43 seconds remaining, trailing by 10 points with no timeouts, and is ruled out for the rest of the season. This is unfortunate news for the 28-year-old receiver, especially in a contract year and having a stellar season.
Godwin will be placed on the season-ending injured reserve, while Evans may end up on short-term I.R. with a chance to return after four weeks. The return of Rakim Jarrett from an I.R. stint could provide some support, but there are uncertainties with rookie receiver Jalen McMillan’s performances. Additionally, the Bucs have Sterling Shepard and Trey Palmer as options.
With a less than ideal receiving group for Baker Mayfield to work with, especially as the NFC South-leading Atlanta Falcons visit on Sunday, the Bucs are looking to add at least two more receivers to the roster. One candidate expected to try out is Tampa native Byron Pringle, who previously played for Kansas City and Chicago.
Former Chiefs WR Byron Pringle – Photo by: USA Today
Byron Pringle, a seasoned player who won Super Bowl LIV with the Chiefs, has had a career with various teams and has shown promise as a reliable receiver with kick return skills. Pringle’s standout season in 2021 saw him achieve career-high numbers in receptions, yards, and touchdowns.
Whether it’s Pringle or another receiver that joins the Bucs after the tryouts, the new addition will likely begin on the practice squad to adapt to Liam Coen’s offense. In the meantime, Ryan Miller, Marquez Callaway, and Tanner Knue are potential options on the practice squad.
Exploring Cooper Kupp Trade Possibility
Rams WR Cooper Kupp – Photo by: USA Today
There is speculation about the Bucs potentially trading for Rams receiver Cooper Kupp, with reports suggesting a second-round pick as the asking price. Kupp, familiar with Liam Coen’s offense, is seen as a target for the Bucs, although no official decision has been made by the team.
Kupp, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, has had a successful career but has faced some setbacks. The Bucs, however, are cautious about making a move for a receiver before their upcoming game against the Falcons. Depending on the outcome of the game, they may consider trades to enhance their chances of securing another division title.
General manager Jason Licht values draft picks and will assess the team’s performance before making any significant moves in the season.
