Da'Quan Bowers injury: Bucs DE can take his time in return

Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Da'Quan Bowers is eligible to come off the physically unable to perform list this week after rupturing his Achilles tendon in May. The role that he has with the team will depend on how in shape he is, but it is likely he will be a rotational player on the defensive line.

However, given the performance of the other defensive ends on the roster, the Bucs may not be in a rush to bring Bowers back. Defensive ends Michael Bennett and Daniel Te'o-Nesheim are performing well in replacement roles. Stephen Holder of the Tampa Bay Times thinks that Bowers could be used in certain situations:

Perhaps Schiano sees him as a potential elite pass rusher and opts to use him when there are optimum pass-rushing opportunities. Or, maybe the Bucs prefer to take advantage of his size and bulk and use him in running situations.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers play the New Orleans Saints on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium. Since the Tampa Bay defense has allowed about 312 passing yards per game, the Buccaneers will need their pass rush to help slow down Drew Brees and the Saints offense.