The Bucs received some great news on Thursday as rookie defensive tackle Calijah Kancey, the team’s first-round pick, practiced for the first time in over a month. Kancey has been out of action since July 30 after injuring his calf during training camp.

Calijah Kancey Was On The Move At Bucs Practice

Bucs DT Calijah Kancey – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

The rookie defensive lineman was in full pads and uniform warming up with the Bucs. He did calisthenics with team as they typically do to begin practice. He also did some running and seemed to be okay while moving.

Head coach Todd Bowles did not rule out Calijah Kancey for Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings on Wednesday, and his participation on Thursday morning is a welcoming sign that he could be available in a couple of days.

Kancey’s return would bring a lot more quickness, speed and athleticism to Tampa Bay’s defense up front. They’ll need that facing the Minnesota Vikings, as quarterback Kirk Cousins is willing to stay in the pocket as long as possible and absorb a hit in order to get a pass off.

The Bucs’ ability to get to the quarterback might be a deciding factor in Sunday’s game.

How much Kancey can play will be determined by Bowles. He usually doesn’t reveal much playing time information, especially for Week 1. So it’s doubtful we’ll have a true answer about how much he can play until perhaps kickoff itself. Either way, this is a great step in the right direction for Calijah Kancey and Tampa Bay.