Buccaneers' Yaya Diaby Returns to Practice; Week 1 Status?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost their star pass rusher Yaya Diaby in the first week of training camp due to a left ankle injury, and he did not practice for the entirety of camp or play in any preseason games.
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Diaby indicated that he would be ready to go week 1 against the Washington Commanders, just five short days away.
The third-round draft pick in 2023 had a strong rookie campaign leading the Buccaneers in sacks with 7.5 and recovering two fumbles.
Having Diaby back and healthy is huge for the Bucs' pass rush, which lost production at the end of last year with Shaq Barrett's retirement. The team also didn't make any splashes in free agency at the linebacker position, which indicates their trust in Diaby to get to the quarterback and be a leader of the young linebackers.
Alongside Diaby will be veteran Lavonte David who makes an excellent running mate at outside linebacker. With David captaining the defense and Diaby rushing the passer, the Bucs front seven is full of playmakers ready to attack the ball.
The Buccaneers held an extra practice on Monday where most of their starters looked fresh and healthy.
We will get official word later in the week on whether or not Diaby will play in week 1, but head coach Todd Bowles mentioned after Monday's practice that Diaby had progressed well and is on track to suit up for the home opener vs. the Commanders.
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