Buccaneers’ Evans and Egbuka Game-Time Decisions for Monday Night

TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans is likely to play, and teammate Emeka Egbuka has a “real chance” to participate in Monday night’s game against the Detroit Lions, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Saturday.

Both players were termed game-time decisions by head coach Todd Bowles. Evans, who holds the franchise record for career points, returned to practice this week after missing three games due to a hamstring strain suffered in Week 3 against the New Orleans Saints. He practiced on Thursday, took a rest day Friday, and resumed activities on Saturday.

“He draws a double-team,” Bowles said about Evans. “It helps the run game because it keeps a safety out of the box plus another corner out of the box. Obviously, he’s our go-to guy when he is healthy.”

In a surprising turn, Egbuka also practiced on Saturday in a limited capacity following his own hamstring strain suffered in Week 6. He was unable to play in the second half of that game and underwent an MRI on Wednesday. Sources indicated that the strain is mild.

“It’s possible. It’s not definite,” Bowles remarked regarding Egbuka’s status. “It’s gonna go all the way up until game time.”

Bowles confirmed that running back Bucky Irving remains out due to a concussion, while two other players are sidelined with injuries. The Buccaneers come into this game with a 5-1 record, having secured a 30-19 victory over the San Francisco 49ers last week.

The Lions, following a 30-17 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, hold a 4-2 record and sit second in the NFC North. Tampa Bay is eager to maintain its lead in the NFC ahead of this crucial matchup.