There was great hope that the Bucs would be healthier out of the bye week, but that wasn’t the case. Heading into Week 11, however, optimism abounds. For the first time since his Week 6 injury, wide receiver Antonio Brown returned to the practice field for Tampa Bay. Pewter Report’s Matt Matera captured video of Brown in helmet and shoulder pads, catching balls on the JUGS machine Thursday morning.

Before media were ushered out of practice, Brown ran a couple routes with Tom Brady as well.

Brown was off to a torrid start in 2021, catching 29 passes for 418 yards and four touchdowns in his first five games. Projected over 17 games, the All-Pro receiver was slated for a monster campaign. Brown’s statistical pace through five games actually had him on pace for 99 catches, 1,421 yards and 14 touchdowns. In fact, Brown’s touchdown mark is still tied for second on the team.

In his place, Tyler Johnson has stepped into the No. 3 receiver role. Johnson has been solid, but Arians made it clear this week that he expects more from that position. Brown is that rare elite talent that also functions as the Bucs third option in the passing game.

If Brown can return in Week 11, the Bucs could be at full strength at wide receiver for the first time since Week 2. Speedster Scotty Miller is also expected back this week. Miller suffered a turf toe injury in Week 3 while filling in for Brown, who was on the COVID list.

UPDATE

The Bucs are technically listing Brown as a Did Not Participate in Thursday’s practice. He was on the practice field in helmet and shoulder pads working out, catching passes and running a couple routes with Brady. But the team has opted for a DNP designation for Brown during Thursday’s practice.

Tampa Bay hosts the visiting New York Giants on Monday Night Football this week.