It’s been over two weeks since Bucs safety Jordan Whitehead practiced with the team. Tampa Bay’s starting strong safety has been sidelined with an undisclosed injury since August 9, when he left practice early. Whitehead has been on the sidelines for all Bucs training camp practices, but hasn’t participated. Talking with the media on Sunday, head coach Bruce Arians says that won’t last much longer.

“Jordan’s getting really, really close,” Arians said. “I would anticipate him to be ready. But the rest of the guys, we’re all looking. Chris Cooper stepped up a little bit last night. Ross (Cockrell) gives us that extra guy back playing three positions. That’s really been a blessing in this camp.”

Bucs S Jordan Whitehead – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

Whitehead is the only Bucs starter to miss a considerable amount of time this offseason. The fourth-year safety is already working his way back from a torn labrum suffered in the playoffs last season. Whitehead was also placed on the COVID-19 list at the outset of training camp, so he’s received very few reps with the starting unit this summer.

But when Whitehead has been out there, he’s been impressive. The Pitt product notched a pair of interceptions in one of his more recent practices, and his coverage skills have looked much improved. Whitehead is being pushed for playing time by Mike Edwards, but both players should see the field. The older defender is more of a natural fit at strong safety than Edwards, although the latter has improved his tackling.

The Bucs starters are set to play the first half against the Houston Texans this week. Even if Whitehead doesn’t play in that game, it sounds like Arians feels confident in his availability for Week 1. Considering the Cowboys offensive weaponry, the Bucs sure could use him to kick off the season on September 9.