Buccaneers Leak WR Trade Stance After Mike Evans Injury

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced a significant setback in a recent game, losing to the Detroit Lions and suffering a major injury to star wide receiver Mike Evans, who broke his collarbone and is likely out for the remainder of the season.

This incident adds to the Buccaneers' ongoing injury woes in their receiving corps, with Chris Godwin dealing with a fibula injury after returning from injured reserve and Jalen McMillan sidelined due to a preseason neck sprain.

Speculation arose about whether Tampa Bay would seek a wide receiver via trade, but according to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports, the team is unlikely to pursue such a move, as they expect Godwin and McMillan to return and have confidence in their drafting strategy.

General Manager Jason Licht has a history of not making aggressive trades at the deadline, and the team's recent successful drafts reduce the urgency to acquire external help, despite Evans' absence and his expiring contract.

The Buccaneers, initially viewed as Super Bowl contenders, now face challenges in meeting expectations, particularly with quarterback Baker Mayfield, as Evans' injury diminishes their offensive firepower.

Potential trade targets like Jaylen Waddle or Chris Olave are deemed unavailable or impractical, and options such as Jakobi Meyers are less appealing due to his contract status and the cost of draft capital.

Instead, Tampa Bay is relying on the return of injured players and the performance of rookie Emeka Egbuka, maintaining a 5-2 record as they prepare for an upcoming game against the Saints.