'Miss some time': Jalen McMillan injury opens door for Emeka Egbuka to join Mike Evans in week 1 starting lineup
Jalen McMillan sent a wave of concern across the Tampa Bay Buccaneers fanbase when he hit the ground hard during a preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.
The young wide receiver jumped high for a pass but landed directly on his head and neck after being tackled by Steelers cornerback Daryl Porter Jr. McMillan left the field in a neck brace, and though he later posted on Instagram that he was okay, the team still needed official reports.
Todd Bowles gives concerning
Jalen McMillan injury
update after scans
On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles addressed the media and shared the final results of Jalen McMillan's medical scans.
According to veteran Buccaneers reporter Rick Stroud, Todd Bowles confirmed that Jalen McMillan has a
'severe neck sprain'
and will 'miss some time.' The head coach clearly said,
'He will not be ready for the season opener.'
That rules Jalen McMillan out of the Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, September 7, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia.
Todd Bowles also said that veteran wide receiver Chris Godwin remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list and is still recovering.
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The Buccaneers had planned for Jalen McMillan to take a bigger role this season after his rookie year numbers of 37 receptions for 461 yards and eight touchdowns in 2024.
Rick Stroud also added that the medical team will check his progress daily and will take 'no risks' with his return.
Also Read:
'They Going To Eat You Alive': Deion Sanders Leaves Colorado Players In Disbelief With Brutal Social Media Statement Before 2025 Season
Emeka Egbuka
set to line up with Mike Evans in week 1
Emeka Egbuka, the Buccaneers' first-round draft pick, now has a huge chance to step into the starting lineup.
Since the start of training camp in Tampa, Florida, on July 24, 2025, teammates and coaches have praised Emeka Egbuka's sharp routes and strong hands.
In a Sports Illustrated interview published on August 18, 2025, Mike Evans said,
'He's working hard and ready to fill any role we ask of him.'
With Jalen McMillan and Chris Godwin both out, Emeka Egbuka and Mike Evans are expected to lead the Buccaneers' receiving group in Week 1.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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