TAMPA — Starting LT Donovan Smith, held out of practice Wednesday with a hip injury, was back Thursday, a good sign he will be able to play in the Bucs' home opener Sunday against the Rams.
Smith hasn't missed a snap in his first 18 NFL games, and his presence is a big part of the offensive line, which faces a tough Rams front four that includes Pro Bowl DT Aaron Donald and end Robert Quinn, who is three years removed from a 19-sack season.
"Of course, you want your best players on the field," said coach Dirk Koetter, declining to provide specifics on injuries beyond what's required on the injury report.