The Buccaneers are off to a 5-1 start, but the injuries are piling up in their wide receiver room. Chris Godwin Jr. has played two games, Mike Evans has been out for a few weeks and Emeka Egbuka suffered a hamstring injury in Week 6.
Tampa Bay is hopeful that Evans can return to practice this week, opening the door for a potential return in Week 7’s game against the Lions. He’ll have an extra day to prepare as the Buccaneers play on Monday night. With Godwin, Egbuka and Bucky Irving all likely out, it would be a major boost to the Buccaneers’ offense.
If Evans plays in Week 7, it would be his first game since he got injured in Week 3 against the Jets. The major question with his return will be how healthy he is. It’s important to stay up to date on his health, as he could play this week even if he’s not 100%. If that’s the case, it may be best to bench Evans.
While he’s one of the most reliable receivers in the NFL, it’s possible that he becomes a decoy if he’s not fully healthy. It’s common for teams to do this with their top receivers as defenses will likely send more pressure at them.
If Evans is playing at 100%, starting him is a no-brainer. Unless your fantasy team somehow consists of three or more top wide receivers, there’s no reason to bench Evans. He’s one of the best redzone threats in the NFL and will get even more targets with Godwin and Egbuka likely sidelined.
Don’t overcomplicate it. Evans is worth a start if he’s fully recovered, especially against a Lions’ pass defense that allows the 14th fewest yards and sixth most touchdowns.