Bucs' Jalen McMillan suffers neck injury: "He’s going to miss time... it shouldn’t be career threatening."

Wide receiver Jalen McMillan of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has sustained a severe neck injury and will miss significant time during the upcoming regular season.

Why it matters: This injury not only affects McMillan's playing time but also poses challenges for the Buccaneers as they navigate their offensive strategy without one of their key receiving threats.

• McMillan, a third-round draft pick in 2024, was emerging as a pivotal player after leading the NFL with seven touchdown catches in the final five weeks of the previous season.
• His absence comes at a critical juncture as the Buccaneers also contend with Chris Godwin’s recovery from ankle surgery.

What’s new: McMillan suffered the injury during the Bucs' second preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers when he awkwardly fell while attempting to catch a pass, colliding with defensive back Daryl Porter Jr.

• Although he managed to walk off the field, subsequent medical evaluations revealed that he has a "severely strained neck."
• Todd Bowles, head coach of the Buccaneers, confirmed that while McMillan will miss time, the injury is not expected to be career-threatening.

Yes, but: Despite the severity of the injury, McMillan's prognosis offers some optimism for both him and the team.

• He was cleared to fly home with the team while wearing a neck brace, indicating that the immediate risks have been mitigated.
• The Buccaneers are hopeful that with proper rehabilitation, McMillan can return to the field this season.

What to watch: As McMillan recovers, the Buccaneers will need to adjust their offensive schemes.

• Without McMillan and Godwin, the pressure falls on other receivers to step up, potentially leading to an increased reliance on younger talent.
• How quarterback Baker Mayfield adapts his game plan to accommodate these changes could significantly impact the team's performance.

The bottom line: McMillan's injury is a setback for the Buccaneers, yet it opens up opportunities for other players to emerge within the offense.

• As the team prepares for the regular season, maintaining depth and resilience in their wide receiving corps will be crucial for their success in a competitive NFC South division.