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O.J. Howard’s breakout season has come to a premature end.
The former Alabama tight end landed on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ injured reserve Tuesday, according to a report from The Tampa Bay Times. Howard sustained foot and ankle injuries on the same fourth-quarter play during the Bucs’ 38-35 loss to the New York Giants on Sunday.
In his second season as a pro, Howard was fifth among tight ends with 565 yards and tied for third with five touchdown catches. The former first-round draft pick led all others at his position with 16.8 yards per reception entering Sunday’s round of games, which contributed to his grading as the league’s top tight end by Pro Football Focus.
Howard ended his rookie season on injured reserve, as well. Crimson Tide fans are certainly hoping to see him play a full season next year.
Marcus covers SEC football for Saturday Down South.
