Bucs vs. Falcons: Early Inactives Present Challenges

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter their Week 5 divisional showdown against the Atlanta Falcons with a 3-1 record, leading the NFC South after a commanding 33-16 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.

However, they will be without several key players as they look to extend their lead in the division.

Bucs injury report:

The following players are listed as out for Thursday's matchup:

OT Luke Goedeke: Concussion

DT Calijah Kancey: Calf

WR Jalen McMillan: Hamstring

WR Trey Palmer: Concussion

S Antoine Winfield Jr.: Foot

The Falcons have not yet listed any players as officially out.

The injuries to key offensive and defensive contributors are expected to challenge the Buccaneers' depth. Quarterback Baker Mayfield, who is coming off one of his best performances of the season, will need to lead an offense missing key targets.

Mayfield completed 30 of 47 passes for 347 yards and two touchdowns in Week 4 and will look to replicate that success despite the absence of receivers Palmer and McMillan.

The Atlanta Falcons, sitting at 2-2, will look to take advantage of the Buccaneers' weakened lineup as they aim to close the gap in the NFC South.

With the Saints also at 2-2 and the Panthers struggling at 1-3, this matchup presents a critical opportunity for Tampa Bay to solidify their lead in the division.

As kickoff approaches, the Buccaneers' injury report may change, but they will need to rely on the rest of their roster to maintain momentum in this crucial divisional matchup.

Related: 'It's A Long Year!' Bucs' Baker Mayfield Puts More Weight in Divisional Opponents, Atlanta Falcons

Following the Bucs' first divisional matchup, they will face the New Orleans Saints the following week.

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