The Tampa Bay Buccaneers began preparations for their Week 9 matchup against the Chicago Bears on Wednesday, releasing their first injury report ahead of Sunday night’s game at Soldier Field.
Tampa Bay listed eight players on the initial report, including three who did not participate in practice.
Wide receiver Emeka Egbuka (foot) remained sidelined after missing the team’s previous two games, leaving his availability for Sunday uncertain. Outside linebacker Yaya Diaby (knee) also did not practice
and is expected to miss the matchup after suffering an MCL sprain in the Buccaneers’ Week 8 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
Defensive lineman Elijah Roberts was the third player held out of practice, although his absence was listed as personal rather than injury-related.
Running back Kenny Gainwell (hip) and safety Tykee Smith (ankle) were limited participants Wednesday. Meanwhile, quarterback Baker Mayfield (right thumb), guard Cody Mauch (back) and tight end Cade Otton (thumb) participated fully.
The Buccaneers are coming off a 16-0 shutout victory over Atlanta, their second consecutive win, and will look to continue that momentum against a Chicago team that enters the matchup at 6-2 following a Monday night victory over Seattle.
Tampa Bay will have two more practice sessions before the team’s final injury report is released Friday, providing a clearer picture of who will be available for Sunday’s contest.
The Buccaneers and Bears are scheduled to kick off at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC.
