The problems on Tampa’s defense just got more out of hand.
The Bucs will be without safety Jermaine Phillips for the rest of the season because of his broken thumb. It was believed Phillips was going to miss 6-8 weeks, but a further examination caused Tampa to place him on season-ending injured reserve.
The eight-year veteran has a long history of broken bones in his arms and hands, and he may be at the end of his run with the team. The Bucs have given up a number of vertical plays in the first two weeks, and their back end will now be weaker.
The Bucs also released reserve safety Steve Cargile Tuesday, so they have two open roster spots to fill.