For the first time in nearly eight weeks, Bruce Arians took to the podium today to answer questions from the media. In his nearly 15 minute interview, Arians touched on a plethora of topics, namely the big issue regarding the injury to free safety Justin Evans.
According to Arians, he simply can’t say much about the severity of Evans injury, considering he’s yet to see the young man play.
Bruce Arians on Bucs safety Justin Evans and when he might return from heel injury: "I have no idea. If he would have practiced all spring and was penciled in as a starter, I'd be concerned. I haven't seen him play. I've seen all the other guys play, and I'm OK."
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) July 25, 2019
More Bruce Arians on Justin Evans: "If we get him back and he's what I hope he is, that's adding to the picture."
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) July 25, 2019
Evans has yet to practice at all this spring, so to hear this from the head coach has to be somewhat worrisome at least. On the other hand, this could very well be precautionary, knowing the depth at the safety position, in order to keep his legs fresh for the regular season.
With all that being said, what is still unknown is when Evans will be football ready. Heel injuries are very difficult to monitor. Because of the proximity of the Achilles tendon, it’s something you have to pay very close attention to.
Considering week one of the regular season is mere weeks away, one has the wonder if the status of Evans will affect the Buccaneers plans moving forward. Of course, Tampa Bay will be hoping for a speedy recovery.
