Egbuka Ruled Out for Buccaneers’ Week 8 Game Against Falcons

Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles ruled Egbuka out for the November 1 game against the Falcons after the receiver missed October 30 practice. Egbuka also sat out Tampa Bay’s Week 7 win over Carolina. He returned to practice in a limited capacity this week, but Bowles said he had not been at full speed and was still recovering. A foot injury is keeping him sidelined; he has cleared concussion protocol.

Egbuka, a 2025 first-round pick, had 28 catches for 240 yards and two touchdowns on 49 targets across six games this season. He has not played with quarterback Baker Mayfield since Week 3. In the 43-13 win over Carolina, Mayfield attempted only 11 passes as Tampa Bay relied on its running game and defense.

The Falcons could require a different approach. Atlanta has a strong rushing defense, and its offense has put up 155 points over five starts by Michael Penix Jr. Tampa Bay enters the matchup at 2-5, while Atlanta and Carolina are tied at 3-4 atop the NFC South.

Egbuka’s absence leaves Chris Godwin, Ted Hurst and Tez Johnson among the receivers in line for added chances. Godwin led Tampa Bay with five targets and four catches against Carolina, but gained 27 yards. Hurst had no fantasy points in that game, while Johnson recorded 33 yards and a touchdown on two catches. Hurst and Johnson are viewed as deeper-league options, while Godwin carries risk against Atlanta’s coverage of slot receivers. Tight end Cade Otton is another possible streaming option.

Tampa Bay also expects a defensive boost: Bowles expects cornerback Antoine Winfield Jr. back following an absence of three games with fractured ribs.