9-for-9 K Chase McLaughlin Is Playing Thursday and His Groin Injury Has Everyone Stunned

Buccaneers kicker Chase McLaughlin hit the injury report on Tuesday with hip and groin issues, yet somehow, he is still set to play Thursday night against the Cowboys. Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed on Wednesday that McLaughlin will be kicking in Dallas, and the team isn’t even looking for a backup. Talk about trusting your guy, even when his body is screaming no!

McLaughlin’s Perfect Start Hits a Major Snag

So, here’s the deal: McLaughlin was a non-participant in practice because of a right hip and groin injury. Ouch. Those aren’t minor for a kicker, especially one who needs that powerful rotation. But the dude has been absolutely lights out this season, connecting on all 9 of his field goal attempts and a perfect 7-for-7 on extra points. That’s a huge deal for a team, especially in tight games. You have to wonder what kind of pain management he is on, or if he’s just got that grit we all love to see. Playing through that kind of pain, especially with a perfect record on the line, shows serious dedication.

Injury Report Isn’t Just About the Kicker, Though

While McLaughlin’s status is wild, the Bucs’ injury report is looking rough all over for their prime time game. They are getting some good news though, with rookie linebacker Rueben Bain expected back after missing two games with groin and shoulder injuries. That’s a boost! But the list of players ruled out is pretty significant. Quarterback Baker Mayfield is out with a thumb injury, safety Antoine Winfield is sidelined with a rib issue, cornerback Benjamin Morrison won’t play due to a quad injury, and linebacker SirVocea Dennis is out with ankle and foot problems. That’s a lot of key guys missing for a big Thursday night battle against the Cowboys.

Thursday night in Dallas is going to be a real test for the Buccaneers, not just because they are facing the Cowboys, but because they are heading into enemy territory with a seriously banged-up roster. Can McLaughlin keep his perfect season alive while battling through pain, and can the rest of the team step up with so many starters on the sidelines? It’s going to be a wild one.

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Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.