Buccaneers-Panthers inactives: Gerald McCoy, Lavonte David return to action

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers haven’t been lucky on the injury front this year, but at least there’s something to be happy about today: Gerald McCoy and Lavonte David will be active today after sitting out last week’s game with injuries.

McCoy will have to compensate for Robert Ayers’ absence, as the veteran defensive end is out with injury. The Bucs have also deactivated cornerback Ryan Smith and wide receiver DeSean Jackson with injuries, which is obviously not a good thing. At least Jackson’s absence shouldn’t impact the team too much, given the depth they have at receiver.

As for the Carolina Panthers, they’ll have to play without the help of wide receiver Russell Shepard and guard Trai Turner. Shepard hasn’t produced what the Panthers had hoped he would this season, though he’s still an outstanding special teamer, while Turner’s absence will be a bigger blow to the offense.

Buccaneers inactives: DE Robert Ayers G Adam Gettis QB Ryan Griffin LB Nigel Harris WR DeSean Jackson DE Patrick O'Connor CB Ryan Smith

Panthers inactives: WR Russell Shepard OL Trai Turner QB Garrett Gilbert CB LaDarius Gunter FB Alex Armah OL Greg Van Roten DE Zach Moore.