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3h ago

Buccaneers' Jalen McMillan to Miss Start of Season With Severely Strained Neck

Bowles says the injury is not considered career threatening.

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Jul 31, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan (15) participates in training camp at AdventHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images/ File Photo

Overview

  • The second-year receiver was hurt Aug. 16 in a preseason game at Pittsburgh after a midair collision with Daryl Porter Jr., was evaluated at a local hospital, and flew home in a neck brace.
  • Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed McMillan will miss regular-season time and will not be available for Week 1 at Atlanta.
  • The Tampa Bay Times reports he is expected to open the season on injured reserve, with a potential return not anticipated until after the Week 9 bye.
  • With Chris Godwin still on the active/PUP list following ankle surgery, first-round rookie Emeka Egbuka is in line for an expanded early role alongside Mike Evans.
  • McMillan delivered seven touchdown catches over the final five games of his rookie year, underscoring the impact of his absence on Tampa Bay’s passing options.