Tampa Bay Buccaneers Elevate Michael Pratt as Injuries Hit Quarterbacks Baker Mayfield and Kyle Trask

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made a significant roster move in response to injuries affecting their quarterback depth. With starting quarterback Baker Mayfield dealing with a shoulder injury and backup Kyle Trask nursing a knee injury, the team has elevated Michael Pratt from the practice squad to the active roster.

Kyle Trask, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, has been a key figure in the Buccaneers’ quarterback situation. However, his current knee injury has raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers. Trask’s injury, combined with Mayfield’s shoulder issue, has left the team with limited healthy quarterback options, prompting the elevation of Pratt.

Despite the injuries, the Buccaneers are preparing for a crucial game against the Panthers, with significant implications for their NFC South standings. The return of All-Pro tackle Tristan Wirfs from an MCL sprain is a positive note, but the absence of pass rusher Joe Tryon-Shoyinka due to an ankle injury adds to the team’s challenges.

Michael Pratt, who will serve as the emergency third-string quarterback, brings a different skill set compared to Mayfield and Trask. While he lacks the size of Trask and the mobility of Mayfield, he combines elements of both, potentially offering unique packages in the game plan.

The Buccaneers’ inactives list for Week 13 includes Tryon-Shoyinka, Tyreek Funderburk, Devin Culp, and Earnest Brown, highlighting the team’s ongoing struggles with injuries this season.