Clinton McDonald returns to Buccaneers practice

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers got a little bit healthier today, as defensive tackle Clinton McDonald returned to practice on a limited basis. Gerald McCoy was still limited as well, but his continued participation bodes well for a Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers.

We can almost certainly write off Doug Martin for Sunday, though, as the back is still not back at practice. The same is true for defensive end Robert Ayers. And worryingly, cornerback Jude Adjei-Barimah appeared on the injury report for the first time this week, as he was limited in practice with a knee injury.

But there’s also good news. Wide receiver Cecil Shorts, center Joe Hawley and tight end Luke Stocker participated fully, which means they should be back on Sunday. I’d expect all three of them to start.

As for the 49ers, they are mostly healthy, with a few players limited but expected to play on Sunday. Only running back Carlos Hyde missed today’s practice, and he’s almost certainly out for Sunday’s game, too.