The Bucs may not be feeling great after their performance against the Lions, but from a health standpoint, they are as close to being fully healthy as they were to begin the season. That’s a great sign moving forward.

Bucs’ Edge Rusher Returns

Bucs ILB Lavonte David and OLB Shaq Barrett – Photo by: USA Today

Outside linebacker Anthony Nelson, who missed Sunday’s game with a concussion, was participating at practice on Wednesday when the Bucs returned from their off day. Nelson was the only player who was ruled out in Week 6.

Fellow outside linebacker Shaq Barrett practiced as well, so it looks like he has gotten over his illness. Barrett did play against the Lions, but missed last Thursday and Friday, which made him questionable heading into the weekend.

Defensive tackle Calijah Kancey played a full game for the first time in his NFL career, even recording his first sack. There were no setbacks or other flair-ups from his calf injury. He also participated on Wednesday.

How Did Baker Mayfield Look?

While his spirit seemed to be more broken than anything else on Sunday, Baker Mayfield was dealing with a bruised left hand and a cut on a finger on his right throwing hand. Mayfield did have his left hand taped up at practice, but he took snaps from Robert Hainsey both in shotgun and under center. Mayfield didn’t look any worse for wear, so it seems he’ll be ready to go for this Sunday against the Falcons.

Mike Evans Was Back Again

Bucs WR Mike Evans – Photo by: USA Today

Wide receiver Mike Evans made his return from a hamstring injury for Week 6. He was back to participating on Wednesday, showing no signs of a setback with the soft tissue injury. I’d expect a bounce back week from him as Evans certainly can’t be happy with having a costly drop and an offensive pass interference penalty that both hurt the Bucs in their last game.

Evans will greatly be needed this week as Tampa Bay looks to separate themselves from from the pack with their first-place lead in the division on the line.