Jameis Winston – Important
QB Jameis Winston will start the Buccaneers’ next game against the Atlanta Falcons on Oct. 14, coach Dirk Koetter announced Monday. Winston had been suspended for the first three games for violating the NFL’s policy on personal conduct, and Ryan Fitzpatrick started the first four games, including Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears. Winston replaced Koetter in the second half Sunday with the Bucs’ trailing 38-3. The Bucs have a bye this week, so the team has two weeks to rest and prepare for the Falcons.
Jason Pierre-Paul – Noteworthy
DE Jason Pierre-Paul recorded his fourth sack of the season on Sunday. He became the first Buccaneers’ player to post a sack in at least three consecutive games since 2016.
O.J. Howard – Important – Injury
TE O.J. Howard is expected to be sidelined a few weeks with a sprained knee, Bucs coach Dirk Koetter said Monday. It had been reported earlier that Howard would be out two-to-four weeks, but Koetter did not offer a timeline. Howard has recorded 11 receptions for 222 yards and a touchdown in four games this season.
O.J. Howard – Noteworthy – Injury
TE O.J. Howard is expected to be sidelined two-to-four weeks with a sprained MCL, multiple media outlets reported on Monday. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the severity of the injury that Howard sustained to his left knee in the first half of the Buccaneers’ 48-10 drubbing by the Chicago Bears on Sunday. Howard has recorded 11 receptions for 222 yards and a touchdown in four games this season for Tampa Bay (2-2), which has dropped two straight contests. The Buccaneers have a bye in Week 5 before returning to visit the Atlanta Falcons.