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The goal of preseason games is to get work in without suffering injuries. Unfortunately for the Bucs, they were hit hard along the interior offensive line in their 27-10 loss to the Colts on Saturday. Center Robert Hainsey and offensive lineman Nick Leverett both left the game with injuries and didn not return.
According to Pro Football Network’s Aaron Wilson, both Hainsey and Leverett’s injuries are not considered long term and both could be ready by Week 1.
Bucs Cs Nick Leverett and Robert Hainsey – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR
Hainsey suffered a ankle injury in the first quarter when the defender Leverett was blocking rolled up on his left ankle. Hainsey left the field limping with the assistance of trainers and headed straight for the locker room. He later returned to the sideline walking around and joking with his fellow linemates.
On the WFLA broadcast, general manager Jason Licht said the second-year center was in “good spirits” and they didn’t believe it was a “major injury.”
Wilson reported that X-rays were taken this morning and confirmed the injury does not appear to be a serious one. Though the exact injury is still unknown, there is optimism within the team he will be able to go against Dallas in the season opener.
Buccaneers center Robert Hainsey underwent X-rays for his ankle Sunday morning, and it is not regarded as a long-term injury, per league source, and there is optimism that he could be ready for the first game of the season. @PFN365 #NFLTwitter
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) August 28, 2022
Leverett’s Injury Affects Bucs LG Battle
Leverett also left the game with a shoulder injury in the second quarter and was promptly ruled out for return. The third-year lineman is currently battling rookie Luke Goedeke for the starting left guard spot. He is also the team’s backup center and a valuable asset with along the line with his unique position flexibility. Wilson is reporting that Leverett suffered an AC joint injury, and like Hainsey is not expected to keep him out long term. Goedeke is the favorite to start at Dallas in Week 1.
Buccaneers center-guard Nick Leverett sustained an AC joint injury in his shoulder with X-rays determining it's not considered a long-term injury and could be managed going forward, per a league source @PFN365
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) August 28, 2022
Injuries have already hit the interior line with the loss of guard Aaron Stinnie and center Ryan Jensen. Stinnie suffered a torn ACL and MCl in last weeks preseason loss to the Titans. Jensen went down on the second day of camp but still has no diagnosis or timetable on his injury. The Bucs are expected to place him on short-term injured reserve keeping the hope alive Jensen may be able to return at some point this season.
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