The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are working hard to erase the bitter taste of losing to the Bengals in week one. From Alex Anzalone's ugly debut to Baker Mayfield's three fumbles, getting the Browns in Week 2 is a blessing in disguise.
Last week, the Buccaneers were without starting WR Jalen McMillan. He was listed as doubtful heading into the weekend, so it was no surprise that he was inactive for the game. On Thursday, the Buccaneers updated their injury report for week two, and McMillan was a full participant.
The news is great for the Buccaneers' offense. With McMillan back on the field, Tampa will have its trio of starters available, and McMillan can take pressure off Emeka Egbuka and Chris Godwin.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Week 2 injury report bring good news after brutal opening season loss
For most rookie WRs, getting playing time early in a season is often difficult, unless you were drafted by the Miami Dolphins this year. They have two 3rd-round rookies starting, and another later selection who is getting on the field. Ted Hurst isn't that lucky. McMillan's return will further diminish his opportunities.
With McMillan out last week, Hurst reeled in all three of his targets for 36 yards. A solid outing for the rookie, but if McMillan is 100% a go against the Browns, Hurst is going to see limited time.
The Buccaneers aren't as banged up as some would have thought. Maybe more ego bruises than physical ailments. Starting CB Jacob Parish was limited in practice on Wednesday, but it's precautionary, and he is expected to be ready to go, barring any setbacks with his back.
Safety Miles Killebrew is the only other player on the six-man list who was limited. He is in the concussion protocol.
McMillan had a decent start to his career in 2025 as a third receiver. He was targeted 58 times and caught 37 passes for 461 yards and eight touchdowns. Not bad for a guy who was behind Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Godwin missed eight of the first 10 games last year.
Tampa could take a cautious approach with the receiver and limit his use this week. The Buccaneers could get off to a fast start and then control the clock with their running game. While the Browns are not a good football team, they have a good defense despite the trade of Myles Garrett to the Rams.
In that return, they landed the 19th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft: Jared Verse. Verse has a high motor and can set the tempo of the game.
Regardless, McMillan is going to add another dimension to the team, and after last week, they could use the help...and good news.
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