The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have taken a major upswing as a defensive unit over the last quarter of the season. However, what’s made their improvement even more impressive is that the turnaround has come without star safety Antoine Winfield Jr.
Appearing in just nine games on the year, what is Winfield’s status for the playoffs?
What Is Antoine Winfield Jr.’s Injury?
Winfield signed a four-year, $84.1 million contract before the start of the season that made him the highest-paid defensive back in league history. However, Year 1 of that contract hasn’t gone according to plan as Winfield has been forced to sit out for multiple stretches with injuries, playing in half of Tampa Bay’s games.
His most recent injury, a knee sprain, came in Week 14 against the Las Vegas Raiders, which forced him to miss the rest of the regular season. He has since been on the injury report, hoping his knee heals in time for the playoffs.
When Will Winfield Return?
Both Winfield and the Buccaneers have had Sunday circled on their calendars since officially punching their ticket in Week 18. With his knee holding him out of action, there was uncertainty about his availability for the Wild Card Round against the Washington Commanders.
However, Wednesday brought some optimism for the fanbase. Head coach Todd Bowles announced that Winfield was a full participant in practice, which puts him in line to make a return during Wild Card Weekend.
When the official game statuses come out on Friday, Winfield is expected to be active.
How Has Winfield’s Absence Impacted the Buccaneers?
Winfield was the best player on the Tampa Bay defense in 2023. Totaling 122 combined tackles, he also had six sacks, six forced fumbles, and three interceptions on the year. He was utterly dominant, earning All-Pro honors for his contributions.
As a result, Winfield earned his massive extension. While there is little doubt about his status as a blue-chip player, his production was less convincing in his injury-riddled 2024 campaign.
Through nine games, he had compiled just 60 total tackles and only two sacks on the year, without forcing a turnover. Consequentially, the Buccaneers’ defense struggled before a hot home stretch. They posted the 16th-ranked defense according to PFN’s Defense+ metric, impressive given Winfield’s absence.
When Tampa Bay visits Washington on Sunday, Winfield must play a key role in stopping electric rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who is liable to break off an explosive run or deep ball at any moment.