Bucs' JPP likely to be inactive vs. Rams with shoulder injury

Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Report: Buccaneers LB Jason Pierre-Paul likely to be inactive vs. Rams with shoulder injury

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 9/23/21

Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul didn't practice Wednesday due to a shoulder injury. Head coach Bruce Arians labeled him as day-to-day.

However, it appears Pierre-Paul might be slightly worse than expected. The 32-year-old sought a second opinion on his shoulder, and rest was the recommendation, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

It's likely Pierre-Paul will be inactive for this weekend's game against the Los Angeles Rams to "heal up," Rapoport adds.

#Bucs LB Jason Pierre-Paul had a second opinion on his shoulder and rest was the recommendation, source said. While no firm determination has been made, that likely leaves JPP inactive this week to heal up.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 23, 2021

It's important to note that Pierre-Paul didn't practice at all last week with what was described as a hand injury. The hand issue is still listed on the injury report.

Pierre-Paul has played both games this season. He has nine tackles in 138 defensive snaps.

If Pierre-Paul misses time, Anthony Nelson and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka could see more playing time this weekend. Nelson has played 21 snaps this season and has one tackle. Tryon, meanwhile, has played 40 snaps, recording four tackles and a quarterback hit.

The Bucs are 2-0 this season and are favored to win Sunday's game against the Rams. However, losing Pierre-Paul is significant, so the rest of the defense will have to step up if he's sidelined.

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