Sep 7, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin (13) catches the ball for a touchdown as Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Mike Jenkins (24) as he was called for defensive pass interference during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Carolina Panthers defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-14. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
It’s one and done for Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Mike Jenkins.
The Bucs placed Jenkins on injured reserve today after suffering a pectoral injury in the fourth quarter of Tampa Bay’s loss to the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
“Our starters are both still there, and we’ll keep developing the backups,” coach Lovie Smith told the Tampa Bay Times.
Jenkins was poor on Sunday and was at fault for Carolina’s second touchdown which ultimately proved to be the game winner.
The Bucs still have Alterraun Verner and Johnthan Banks on the roster but are limited by their backup options.
Rashaan Melvin is still nursing an injury and has never played an NFL game while Brandon Dixon made his NFL debut Sunday on special teams.
Leonard Johnson of course plays the nickel, not corner.
The Bucs did just sign Crezdon Butler, who has played in 21 career games, making eight tackles. He has also forced three fumbles.
Jenkins, a former standout with the USF Bulls, was brought in in the offseason as extra depth for the Bucs and was expected to have a big role in their defense.
However, it never materialized as he didn’t appear in any preseason games and has now lasted just one regular season game.