Buccaneers Injury Report: Banks Questionable with Illness, Williams Questionable with Hamstring Issue
By Leo Howell

Sep 29, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Williams (19) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the first half of the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced today that yet another player was infected with MRSA, but declined to give details as to the specific player. Based on the injury report, it’s pretty fair to say we know who it is.
#Bucs injury report-- CB Johnthan Banks (illness) listed as questionable for Sunday's game
— Tom Krasniqi (@TKras) October 11, 2013
As was reported earlier, it’s fairly obvious that young Johnthan Banks is the third Buc to contract the dangerous disease. We certainly wish him nothing but the best as he begins the medication and recovery process from what can be a very dangerous infection.
It should come as no surprise that Carl Nicks was on the injury report as well, but there is nothing but uncertainty about his status.
#Bucs injury report: LG Carl Nicks (foot-MRSA) didn't practice today. He's listed as questionable
— Tom Krasniqi (@TKras) October 11, 2013
He’s listed as questionable, but during today’s press conference with an infection control expert it was announced that Nicks may eventually require surgery to remove the infection, because it infiltrated into his bones.
Dr. Anderson: Nicks staph infection may have been in the bone. Surgery is an option
— Tom Krasniqi (@TKras) October 11, 2013
Here’s to a speedy recovery for Carl, as well.
Here are the remaining players on the Tampa Bay injury report.
#Bucs injury report: WR Mike Williams (hamstring) was limited in practice today. He's questionable for Sunday
— Tom Krasniqi (@TKras) October 11, 2013
#Bucs injury report: These players are probable: SS Barron, FS Goldson, TE Crabtree, OL Carimi, DT Landri, DE Means and CB Melvin
— Tom Krasniqi (@TKras) October 11, 2013
Missing Williams would be a huge blow to the Tampa Bay offense, as he helps keep defenses honest and not totally shade coverage toward Vincent Jackson. The remaining players are all probable for missing some amount of practice time this week, and there’s no real concern that any of them will miss Sunday’s game.
There was an interesting tidbit on the Philadelphia injury report, however.
#Eagles coach Chip Kelly keeping #Bucs guessing about his starting QB. Mike Vick (hamstring) practiced FULLY today #PlotThickens
— Tom Krasniqi (@TKras) October 11, 2013
It was assumed all week that Vick would miss the game against the Buccaneers, with Gerald McCoy even playfully calling Vick out. If McCoy really wanted to play against Vick, it seems like he might get the chance. Practicing fully on Friday is a good sign for a player starting on Sunday, but it will likely be a gametime decision for the Philly QB.