Bucs Gameday

Mike Evans' Sunday Availability Uncertain as Buccaneers Face the Lions

Will star receiver Mike Evans suit up on Sunday? Uncertainty looms ahead of Buccaneers vs. Lions.

Cody Haynes

In this story:

The Buccaneers face a huge challenge with the Lions coming to town. This team will need all hands on deck, as the Lions have been playing some of the best football we've seen this season. Dan Campbell will have his guys ready to go come Sunday. 

As the Bucs seem to have a pretty healthy injury report following the bye week, Mike Evans hasn't practiced at any capacity heading into Thursday, which has caused some concern.

READ MORE: Two Former Buccaneers Super Bowl Champions Feud on Social Media

Evans started off hot in his matchup against the Saints in Week 4 as he hauled in three receptions for forty yards and nearly a touchdown if he wasn't tackled at the ankles drawing a pass interference. Unfortunately, he left the game with a hamstring injury that was reported as a minor tweak. 

Evans has dealt with soft-tissue injuries in the past, but he usually finds his way back on the field. He has only missed eight games in his nine-year career and two of them were due to suspension. If anyone can find a way to get on the field, it's Mike Evans. 

READ MORE: Calijah Kancey’s Potential Game Changing Return to the Buccaneers Defense

Todd Bowles talked to the media today, giving a quick update on Evans' availability for Sunday, but not much.

Even though the Bucs have had surprising success with their young receivers, Palmer and Thompkins, the possibility of not having their best offensive player on the field against the Lions is not ideal. There is a noticeable difference when Evans isn't out there. Opposing defenses respect his game and do their best to keep him from having a big game. This usually gives other players opportunities for success. 

There are two more days of practice before the team takes the field on Sunday, we'll see if Evans practices at any point this week. 

Stick with BucsGameday and the Locked On Bucs podcast for more coverage of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throughout the 2023 season

Follow BucsGameday on Twitter and Facebook

Published
Cody Haynes
CODY HAYNES

Having immersed myself in Buccaneers coverage for the past six years, my football analysis journey has been exhilarating. Currently, on the path to my third degree in Media Production Management and Technology at the esteemed University of Florida, I'm arming myself with a comprehensive skill set to revolutionize sports journalism. During my time on air with 102.5 The Bone, I delved deep into the intricacies of fantasy football, offering listeners invaluable insights. Back in college at SPC, I took the reins of my own radio show, fine-tuning my broadcasting skills and building a dedicated audience. As I step into the realm of writing for Bucs Gameday, I'm eager to bring my wealth of experience and passion for the game to the forefront. Anticipate nothing less than meticulously crafted articles, combining seasoned wisdom with fresh perspectives, as I dive headfirst into the vibrant world of Buccaneers reporting. Let's make every word count.