Evan Smith

Smith missed an early portion of training camp as he was still recovering from surgery on both hips in November 2018, but he appears healthy after playing in last week's preseason opener. The 33-year-old played in seven contests as a reserve interior lineman for the Bucs last season.

Laine simply labeled Smith as "still recovering" from the procedure, while adding that Friday's depth signing of veteran center Josh LeRibeus isn't likely to be the only addition to the interior of the Buccaneers' offensive line. Smith has been a highly versatile asset over his five seasons in Tampa, filling in at both guard spots and at center. There's a chance the veteran has a chance to return at some point before the start of the season, but the likelihood of that occurring probably won't be ascertained until later in the summer.

Regardless of Smith's injury, the Bucs should have Evan Hawley back for next week as Smith was filling in for Hawley to begin with. Smith will head back to the bench even if he's healthy enough to suit up in Week 11.

Smith has gone to the locker room to get the leg checked out. Ben Gottschalk who was originally 3rd string will now be in at C for the Bucs.