If it feels like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been waiting for offensive reinforcements since before the season started, it's because they have.
Star wide receiver Chris Godwin has played in just three games this season after briefly returning in September from last year's season-ending fibula injury. Promising young wide receiver Jalen McMillan has yet to play this year after suffering a preseason neck injury.
That's about to change.
Sources say McMillan, the second-year wideout who burst onto the scene with a stellar rookie season, is set to have his practice window opened soon. If there are no setbacks, McMillan could begin practicing this week -- setting the stage for an infusion of help for the season's stretch run.
McMillan had 37 catches for 461 yards and eight touchdowns as a rookie, and he hoped to build on that success this year. But the third-rounder from Washington suffered three vertebrae fractures in his neck during a preseason game against the Steelers on Aug. 16 and has spent the season on injured reserve.
But this past week, however, noted spine expert Dr. Robert Watkins confirmed that McMillan has received the green light to practice, sources say.
While he's been ramping up away from the spotlight, that news opens the door for him to practice with the team this week. McMillan playing in games won't be immediate, as he will need to get into playing shape, but a return is coming.
Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles was asked this past week about the potential returns of McMillan, veteran wide receiver Mike Evans (broken clavicle) and defensive lineman Calijah Kancey (torn pectoral).
"We will have to see," Bowles said, "but I think they will all be back before the season is out."
Evans is also trending in the right direction after he broke his collarbone in a Week 7 loss to the Detroit Lions. While his return might not be this week, it could be the next. A determination on Evans' status will be based on medical scans that are coming.
As for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Baker Mayfield is expected to play after being listed as questionable due to a sprained AC joint in his left shoulder suffered in Week 12, running back Bucky Irving is returning after dealing with shoulder and foot injuries, and guard Ben Bredeson and linebacker Haason Reddick are likely back, as well.
Plus, Godwin should play more than his handful of plays last week as he works his way back from last year's fibula fracture.
It's taken a while, but the Bucs are finally getting healthy.
