The Bucs announced on Saturday that they have elevated wide receiver and new kick returner Deven Thompkins and inside linebacker J.J. Russell from the practice squad for the Week 15 game against the Bengals.

Bucs WR Deven Thompkins – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

Thompkins made his NFL debut last week against the 49ers as the Bucs’ new kick and punt returner. He did an impressive job taking five kickoffs for 123 yards, including a 54-yarder, along with two punt returns for 21 yards. Most importantly, Thompkins showed no fear by running up the middle and being physical trying to break tackles.

Although Thompkins played his first game last Sunday, he was also elevated in Week 5 but then listed as inactive. This makes it the third time he’s been called up from the practice squad, and the last time that Tampa Bay can do so according to league rule. Another good performance this week could see him getting added to 53-man roster. Thompkins, who is from Fort Meyers, Florida, is playing in his first regular season game at home and will have friends and family in attendance making the trip over.

Bucs Going With Russell Again

Bucs ILB J.J. Russell

Russell fills in as a fourth linebacker spot and will get opportunities on special teams. The Bucs waived Olakunle Fatukasi from the main roster during the week, but they still had Russell on the practice squad available. He’ll play behind Lavonte David, Devin White and K.J. Britt on the depth chart, so it isn’t expected that he’ll get defensive snaps.

He’s played in games for the Bucs in Weeks 8 and 9. Russell was elevated from the practice squad in Week 8 and then signed to the roster the following week. Not long after he was waived and signed to the practice squad. That leaves Russell with one more game to be eligible for elevation.

The Bucs host the Bengals at 4:25 at Raymond James Stadium with both teams fighting to stay atop of their division.