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Tampa Bay Buccaneers face roster decision on Josh Hayes after knee procedure

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 29, 2026, 8:05 PM

Last updated Aug 29, 2026

Tampa Bay Buccaneers face roster decision on Josh Hayes after knee procedure

Summary

Josh Hayes of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has undergone a minor knee procedure that will sideline him to start the 2026 season. Hayes, a key contributor on special teams and a contender for a backup cornerback role, may be placed on injured reserve, which would keep him out for at least the first four games. The Buccaneers have until the roster deadline on Sunday to make a decision, which could affect their coverage units heading into Week 1. In Hayes' absence, players like Damarion Williams might need to step up.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Hayes underwent a knee procedure, expected to miss the start of the season.
•He is competing for a backup cornerback role and is valuable on special teams.
•Buccaneers must decide on injured reserve status before the 53-man roster deadline.
•The team faces challenges in reshuffling coverage units without Hayes.
•Damarion Williams could take on added special-teams responsibilities.

Latest Updates

8:05 PMYahoo Sports — Bucs Face Tough Josh Hayes Decision After Knee Procedure Sidelines Key Special Teamer

What they're saying

"
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have one more roster headache to solve before Week 1, and this one comes with an awkward clock. Josh Hayes, a key special-teams contributor and a contender for a backup cornerback role, has undergone a minor knee procedure. The injury itself may not be viewed as major, however, the timing is […] The post Bucs Face Tough Josh Hayes Decision After Knee Procedure Sidelines Key Special Teamer appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
— Yahoo Sports

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