The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are tied for the best record in the National Football League.
That record will be put to the test when they hit the road for a high-flying Monday Night Football matchup with the Detroit Lions.
Fortunately, Todd Bowles’ team might have its best offensive weapon of the season back on the field.
Apparently, there’s a big chance that star rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka will be able to suit up:
“Schefter: Emeka Egbuka (hamstring) has ‘real chance’ to play Monday,” per Underdog NFL.
Schefter: Emeka Egbuka (hamstring) has "real chance" to play Monday.
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) October 19, 2025
That would be a huge break, but the Bucs also need to be cautious about him.
The Ohio State product missed most of the win over the San Francisco 49ers last Sunday because of the injury, and while it was never believed to be serious, we’ve already seen how tricky soft-tissue injuries can be.
They need to make sure this won’t be a chronic issue or a long-term ailment, and they should err on the side of caution, even if that means that they will have to play without him.
So far, he’s been Baker Mayfield’s preferred weapon.
He’s up to a whopping 27 receptions on 42 targets, logging 469 receiving yards and five receiving touchdowns.
He was the odds-on favorite to run away with Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, helping the Bucs hold down the fort without star WRs Chris Godwin Jr. and Mike Evans.
Evans is reportedly on track to suit up again after missing several weeks with an injury of his own.
As for Godwin and star running back Bucky Irving, they will watch the game from the sidelines again.
NEXT: Jared Goff Reveals Honest Thoughts About Baker Mayfield