Aug 16, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Lovie Smith talks with running back
Mike James(25) before facing the Miami Dolphins at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers dropped to 0-2 in the preseason but beyond the scoreboard, the Bucs are getting thinner on the depth chart too as injuries continue to pile up.
The Bucs already knewthey’d be withoutCharles Sims moving forward as he underwent surgery Saturday, which was reported to besuccessful.
Heading into Saturday’s game against the Dolphins, the Bucs’ two starting cornerbacks sat out once again asMike JenkinsandAlterraun Vernerwatched from the sidelines as they nurse injuries. Verner however did return to practice this week but was held out of the game.
Steven Means, who played well in the Bucs’ opening preseason game, also missed out with an injury. J.B. Shugarts and Da’Quan Bowers were also inactive.
As if that wasn’t bad enough, the Bucs sustained five fresh injuries against Miami.
CornerbackRashaan Melvin, who started, went down with an ankle injury. Then linebackerBrandon Mageegot hurt right before half time.
Major Wright would injure his back as he got kneed by teammateAnthony Gaitorwhile making a tackle, whileWilliam Gholston, who’s expected to have a big impact on the defensive line this year, injured his shoulder making a tackle.
Don't know severity on Will Gholston's right shoulder but he had arm immobilized under a jacket in locker room after game ...
— Greg Auman (@gregauman)August 17, 2014
To cap it all off,Mike Jameswent down too. None of them returned.
The Bucs are increasingly thin at cornerback right now and the same could be said for the defensive line. Depending on James’ status, the Bucs, who had great depth at running back a week ago, could suddenly be in the need for some extra depth.
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