Buccaneers' Jordan Whitehead Injured in Car Accident, Ruled Out for Week 18

The starting safety's absence adds to Tampa Bay's challenges as they aim to secure a playoff spot with a win over the Saints.

Jordan Whitehead, Tampa Bay Buccaneers' starting safety, was involved in a car accident on his way to the team practice facility on Saturday morning.
Whitehead sustained injuries significant enough to be placed on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list and will not play in Sunday's pivotal game against the New Orleans Saints.
The Buccaneers must win against the Saints to clinch the NFC South and a playoff spot or rely on an Atlanta Falcons loss to the Carolina Panthers.
Ryan Neal, a veteran safety, has been elevated from the practice squad to fill Whitehead's roster spot for the season finale.
Whitehead's absence compounds the Buccaneers' defensive challenges, as they are also missing Antoine Winfield Jr. and Jamel Dean due to injuries.