It’s that time of year for the NFL, and especially for the Bucs. A long season has taken a toll on the health of Tampa Bay’s roster. Another blow came today as the team announced that starting strong safety Ryan Neal has been downgraded from doubtful to out. He will not make the trip to Green Bay with the team.

Ryan Neal will not travel with the Buccaneers to Green Bay and is OUT for Sunday’s game. https://t.co/qeaJEvRZ2d

— Buccaneers Communications (@BuccaneersComms) December 16, 2023

Neal has seen his snap count diminish in recent weeks following struggles in coverage early in the year. The Bucs have used him primarily on early downs as an extra box defender to stop the run and his play has improved with the adjustment. In his stead there will most likely be more Kaevon Merriweather in that role with Dee Delaney continuing to come in on long and late downs as a pass defender.

Bucs SS Ryan Neal – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

Bucs Receive Good News About Defensive Lineman

The news today on the injury front isn’t all bad though. The Bucs followed that announcement with positive news regarding a much more vital member of their defense.

Vita Vea’s game status is now Questionable. He was previously doubtful. https://t.co/vXHpmwlYos

— Buccaneers Communications (@BuccaneersComms) December 16, 2023

Vea was absent from last week’s win against the Atlanta Falcons and the defense felt his loss as they were unable to generate much pressure on quarterback Desmond Ridder. Tampa Bay only pressured Ridder on nine of his 45 drop backs as he had time to find receiver Drake London for six passes of 20+ passes. Vea is something of an unlock for everyone around him, elevating both the Bucs pass rush and run defense and he will be needed if they are to stand a chance at beating the Packers in Lambeau Field tomorrow.