Mike Evans, Emeka Egbuka Return as Lions Face Bucs: Inactive Updates

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to enhance their offense for the Week Seven Monday Night Football game against the Detroit Lions. Wide receivers Mike Evans and Emeka Egbuka have been cleared to participate, marking a significant boost for the team.
Mike Evans returns after missing the last three games due to a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Emeka Egbuka, despite not missing any games, was sidelined during the second half of the Buccaneers’ Week Six victory over the San Francisco 49ers because of a hamstring issue. Egbuka currently leads the Buccaneers with 27 receptions for 469 yards and five touchdowns.
Injury Updates
Despite these returns, the Buccaneers will be missing several key players. Chris Godwin, who is dealing with a fibula injury, will be inactive for a second consecutive game. Starting running back Bucky Irving is also out, as he deals with foot and shoulder injuries. Additionally, Luke Haggard, who has been starting at right guard, will not play due to a shoulder issue.
Inactive Players for the Buccaneers
- WR Chris Godwin (fibula injury)
- RB Bucky Irving (foot and shoulder injuries)
- G Luke Haggard (shoulder injury)
- RB Josh Williams (injury)
In preparation for the game, the Buccaneers elevated guard Michael Jordan and running back Owen Wright from their practice squad. This adjustment required the team to declare seven inactives, complying with the limit of 48 players for game day.
Detroit Lions Secondary Challenges
The Lions also face significant challenges in their secondary ahead of the matchup. Detroit announced that multiple starters would be unavailable for the game. Cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and Avonte Maddox are both out due to injuries. First-team AP All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph is also sidelined, and starting safety Brian Branch will serve a one-game suspension for prior conduct.
Inactive Players for the Lions
- CB Terrion Arnold (injury)
- DL Quinton Jefferson (injury)
- S Kerby Joseph (injury)
- CB Avonte Maddox (injury)
- S Jammie Robinson (injury)
- RB Sione Vaki (injury)
- DL Mekhi Wingo (injury)
The Buccaneers and Lions submitted their lists of inactive players at 5:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, 90 minutes before kickoff. The game will take place at Ford Field in Detroit, with both teams looking to gain an edge in their respective seasons.