Inactives for the Bucs’ preseason opener have just been announced prior to the 7 p.m. kickoff against the Steelers at Raymond James Stadium.

Numerous Bucs Starters Being Held Out

On the offensive side of the ball, running back Rachaad White, wide receivers Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Rakim Jarrett, left tackle Tristan Wirfs, left guard Matt Feiler, and center Ryan Jensen are not playing.

Bucs WR Rakim Jarrett – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

The biggest surprise on this list is Rakim Jarrett, who has had an impressive training camp. The preseason was assumed to be his platform and case builder to make the 53-man roster.

With their absences, the top receivers are expected to be Russell Gage, Trey Palmer, and Deven Thompkins to start the game.

On defense, several inactives were expected in Calijah Kancey after his right calf injury and Shaq Barrett still recovering from his Achilles tear. Otherwise, defensive tackles Vita Vea and Greg Gaines, as well as linebackers Lavonte David, Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, and Charles Snowden are all sitting this contest out.

Joining them is the entire Bucs starting secondary: cornerbacks Carlton Davis III and Jamel Dean and safeties Antoine Winfield Jr. and Ryan Neal.

As they sit, it gives members of an unproven Tampa Bay secondary – guys like Zyon McCollum, Keenan Issac, and Christian Izien –  a great opportunity to go up against the Steelers’ starting set of offensive weapons.