Trey Palmer Injury News & Updates

The Saints placed Palmer (ankle) on injured reserve Saturday.

Palmer has yet to play this season due to hamstring and ankle issues, and he's now going to be sidelined for at least the Saints' next four contests.

Palmer (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Giants, Matthew Paras of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Palmer was unable to practice Thursday and Friday due to an ankle injury, which is severe enough for him to sidelined for Sunday's NFC clash. Veteran wide receiver Dante Pettis was signed to the Saints' practice squad Thursday, and he joins Kevin Austin and Tommy Mellott as the top candidates to be elevated to New Orleans' active roster due to Palmer's injury. Palmer's next chance to play is Week 6 against the Patriots on Sunday, Oct. 12.

Palmer (ankle) did not participate in Thursday's practice, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.

Palmer is working through an ankle injury that he may have picked up at some point during Wednesday's practice, given that he hasn't played in any of the first four games of the regular season. His practice participation Friday will indicate his chances of being active for Sunday's home tilt against the Giants. Wide receivers Dante Pettis, Tommy Mellott and Kevin Austin would be candidates to be elevated from the practice squad to the active roster for Sunday's game if Palmer is not cleared to play.

Palmer (ankle) was limited in Wednesday's practice.

Palmer has yet to play in a game this season, as he previously dealt with a hamstring issue. The ankle injury is new, and it's unclear if Palmer will even be active when he's healthy.

Palmer (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Bills, Ross Jackson of WWL Louisianareports.

Palmer was cleared from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for Week 3, but he'll still remain inactive. He has now been a healthy scratch in three of the first four games of the season and has yet to make his Saints' debut.

Palmer (hamstring) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Bills, Ross Jackson of WWL Louisiana reports.

Palmer has yet to play this season, and it's unclear if he'll be active Sunday against Buffalo, though it's worth noting Devaughn Vele has a hip injury that has him questionable to play.

Palmer (hamstring) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday.

Palmer sat out the latter two of the Saints' three practices last week before spending Sunday's game at Seattle on the sideline, so his participation Wednesday was a step in the right direction. If he can practice in full Thursday or Friday, there's a good chance he'd be able to make his 2025 debut at Buffalo.

Palmer (hamstring) is inactive for Sunday's matchup against the Seahawks.

Palmer went from a limited practice Wednesday to a DNP both Thursday and Friday this week, so his unavailability Sunday isn't a surprise. Fellow wideout Devaughn Vele (hip) also isn't playing Week 3, so Mason Tipton and Kevin Austin could be looked to for some reps in the passing game.

Palmer (hamstring) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, Matthew Paras of NOLA.com reports.

Palmer has been a healthy inactive each of the Saints' first two games, so even if he's cleared to play, it wouldn't be a shock to see him inactive once again.

Palmer (hamstring) did not practice Thursday.

It's a downgraded for Palmer after he was limited in Wednesday's practice, and it would seem to indicate he was injured Wednesday. Palmer was a healthy inactive each of the Saints' first two contests.

Palmer (hamstring) was limited in Wednesday's practice.

Palmer was apart of the Bucs' final cuts at the end of August and was claimed off waivers by New Orleans. He's been inactive for each of the first two games despite not being on the injury report.

Palmer (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the 49ers.

Palmer was claimed off waivers by the Saints in late August after failing to make the Buccaneers' 53-man roster at the end of training camp. However, the 2023 sixth-rounder has been a healthy scratch in each of the first two games of the regular season, and he's unlikely to see the field unless Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, Brandin Cooks, Devaughn Vele or Mason Tipton were to miss time. Palmer's next opportunity to suit up is Week 3 against the Seahawks on Sunday, Sept. 21.

Palmer (coach's decision) is a healthy scratch for Sunday's clash against the Cardinals.

Palmer joined New Orleans as a waiver claim in late August, so he may not have had time to get completely caught up with the playbook. He's also no better than No. 5 in the Saints' wideout pecking order, with all of Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, Brandin Cooks and Devaughn Vele clearly ahead of him on the depth chart. Mason Tipton is also on the roster and is active for Week 1, so he may be ahead of Palmer as well.

The Saints won a waiver claim for Palmer on Wednesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Palmer jumps from one NFC South team to another after sliding down the depth chart in Tampa Bay the past couple years. The Saints don't have nearly as much talent as wide receiver, but they currently have fewer injuries at the position, which means Palmer is unlikely to have a significant Week 1 role. A 2023 sixth-round pick, Palmer got a lot of playing time as a rookie but produced just 385 yards on 68 targets (5.7 YPT), before dropping to 22 targets (and improving to 7.8 YPT) in a depth role last year. He's the second late addition at WR in New Orleans, following a trade for Devaughn Vele last week. The depth chart now looks a bit better behind locked-in starters Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, but the Saints' QB situation remains among the worst in the league, starting Spencer Rattler in Week 1 against Arizona.

The Buccaneers waived Palmer on Tuesday, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Tampa Bay's decision to part ways with Palmer is somewhat surprising, given that the team projects to be without both Jalen McMillan (neck) and Chris Godwin (PUP-ankle) for at least the first month of the regular season. It's possible that the 2023 sixth-round pick lost out on a roster spot as a result of the hamstring injury that forced him to miss the Buccaneers' first two preseason game, though he returned for the team's final exhibition tilt against Buffalo on Saturday, securing one of two targets for 13 yards. If he clears waivers, Palmer seems likely to resurface on the practice squad.

Palmer (hamstring) secured one of two targets for 13 yards in the Buccaneers' 23-19 preseason loss to the Bills on Saturday night.

The third-year wideout made his preseason debut after overcoming his hamstring issue, and Palmer was able to make his one catch on the Buccaneers' third possession. Palmer is set to reprise his reserve receiver role again in 2025, and he could see a slight uptick in opportunity early with Jalen McMillan (neck) and Chris Godwin (PUP-ankle) not expected to be available for at least the first month of the regular season.

Palmer (hamstring) missed practice Thursday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.

Palmer is in a fight for a roster spot and can't afford to miss much action. He's competing with the likes of Sterling Shepard, Tez Johnson, Ryan Miller, Rakim Jarrett and Kameron Johnson (undisclosed) for jobs behind Mike Evans, Chris Godwin (ankle), Emeka Egbuka and Jalen McMillan in Tampa Bay. Palmer's playing time was cut by more than half last season, posting a 12-172-1 receiving line on 305 offensive snaps.

Palmer brought in 12 of 22 targets for 172 yards and one touchdown while adding 14 kickoff-return yards and 136 punt-return yards across 15 regular-season games in 2024.

Palmer had put together a solid rookie 2023 campaign in which he'd appeared in all 17 regular-season games and generated a 39-385-3 receiving line while adding 22 rushing yards on three attempts. However, despite Chris Godwin's season-ending ankle injury in Week 7 and Mike Evans' three-game absence with a hamstring injury, Palmer saw a big dip in production from scrimmage in his second season. However, Palmer was deployed as a returner for the first time and was effective running back punts, and he'll have an opportunity to make his case for reverting to a larger complementary role this offseason as he prepares to play out the third season of his rookie contract in 2025.

Palmer logged eight snaps on offense in Sunday's 27-19 win over the Saints but did not see a target. He netted no gain on his one punt return.

The second-year wideout was limited to punt returns for the second consecutive week Sunday, as the majority of the Buccaneers' wide-receiver snaps were distributed among Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan and Sterling Shepard. Palmer is likely to remain primarily limited to returns during the upcoming postseason after finishing his second regular season with 12 catches for 172 yards and a touchdown on 22 targets, 14 kickoff-return yards and 136 punt-return yards over 15 games.

Palmer wasn't targeted over 23 snaps on offense and returned two punts for one yard in the Buccaneers' 48-14 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

Despite the fact Palmer was coming off his first multi-catch tally since Week 9 and Baker Mayfield enjoyed a banner day through the air, Palmer didn't have a single ball thrown his way Sunday. The second-year speedster did retain his returner role but was very quiet on that front as well, and he saw fellow reserve wideout Rakim Jarrett play two more snaps from scrimmage. It remains to be seen if the same pecking order will apply in a Week 18 home matchup against the Saints if Sterling Shepard (hamstring/foot) remains sidelined.

Palmer brought in two of four targets for 31 yards and returned four punts for 31 yards in the Buccaneers' 26-24 loss to the Cowboys on Sunday night.

After going without a catch for three consecutive games, Palmer logged counting stats on offense for the first time since Week 12 and multiple receptions for the first time since Week 9. Palmer still played a sparse 13 snaps (18 percent) from scrimmage, however, and his production remains hard to trust heading into a Week 17 home matchup against the Panthers.

Palmer (illness) was listed as a DNP on Thursday's injury report.

Palmer hasn't registered a catch over his last three games and it appears he is now under the weather. It's unclear what sort of ailment he's working through, but Friday's practice report should provide clarity on Palmer's status heading into Sunday's game against the Cowboys.

Palmer did not see a target over 17 snaps from scrimmage and returned one punt for 10 yards in the Buccaneers' 40-17 win over the Chargers on Sunday.

Palmer saw the fourth-most snaps among Tampa Bay's wide receivers, but he failed to draw a target for the second straight contest. The speedy second-year man has a modest 10-141-1 receiving line on the season and 141 total return yards, but his current fantasy value would be limited to very deep leagues that factor in special-teams statistics.

Palmer did not draw a target and returned one punt for three yards in the Buccaneers' 28-13 win over the Raiders on Sunday. He also fumbled but recovered.

Palmer was able to work through a hip injury to suit up, but he went without a target for only the second time this season and played just seven snaps on offense overall. The second-year wideout saw fellow reserve Rakim Jarrett outpace him by three snaps and may essentially be in a timeshare for the No. 4 receiver spot with the latter at this point. However, with the majority of Baker Mayfield's attention centered on top three receivers Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan and Sterling Shepard -- and a fair share of targets also going to Cade Otton, Rachaad White and Bucky Irving (back) -- there isn't much left to go around for anyone else in the pass-catching corps.

Palmer (hip) is active for Sunday's game against the Raiders.

Palmer was questionable to play Sunday due to a hip injury that limited him in practice Thursday and Friday. However, the 2023 sixth-round pick has done enough over the weekend to be cleared to play, and he will continue to serve in a depth role at wide receiver behind Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan and Sterling Shepard. Palmer has logged 10 catches (on 18 targets) for 141 yards and one touchdown across 10 regular-season games.

Palmer (hip) is listed as quesitonable for Sunday's game against the Raiders.

Palmer's status is in doubt after a hip injury limited his practice participation Thursday and Friday. Even if he suits up, Palmer will likely remain in a depth role behind Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan and Sterling Shepard. Evans doesn't have an injury designation after battling hamstring and calf injuries during the week.

Palmer was a limited participant in Thursday's practice due to a hip injury.

Palmer wasn't included on the Buccaneers' initial Week 14 injury report Wednesday, so his limited listing Thursday could be indicative of an in-practice setback. The wideout will likely need to upgrade to full participation in Friday's practice to avoid taking a designation into Sunday's game versus the Raiders.

Palmer failed to bring in his only target during the Buccaneers' 26-23 overtime win over the Panthers on Sunday.

Palmer played 15 snaps on offense, his third straight game logging under 20 plays from scrimmage. Palmer failed to record a catch for the second time in that span while drawing just a sole target for the third consecutive contest. With the quartet of Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan, Sterling Shepard and Cade Otton -- along with running backs Bucky Irving and Rachaad White --commanding the overwhelming amount of Baker Mayfield's attention, Palmer heads into a Week 14 home matchup against the Raiders with dim fantasy prospects.

Palmer brought in his only target for 18 yards and returned one punt for 15 yards in the Buccaneers' 30-7 win over the Giants on Sunday.

The second-year wideout played 17 snaps (26 percent), placing him behind Jalen McMillan (41 snaps), Mike Evans (39 snaps), Sterling Shepard (35 snaps) and Rakim Jarrett (21 snaps) in terms of the team's wideouts. Palmer figures to remain in a deep reserve role as long as injuries don't strike in front of him on the depth chart, but he's now recorded at least one catch in five of the last six contests.

Palmer failed to secure his only target in the Buccaneers' 23-20 loss to the 49ers on Sunday.

The second-year speedster was in on just 15 snaps (25 percent) during the narrow loss, surprising considering the absence of Mike Evans and unavailability of Jalen McMillan due to hamstring issues. Palmer had logged at least 25 snaps in each of the previous three games, making Sunday's downturn all the more noteworthy. With both Evans and McMillan potentially available for a Week 12 road matchup against the Giants following a Week 11 bye, Palmer could be headed for another minor role in that contest.

Palmer secured two of four targets for 33 yards and returned two punts for 18 yards in the Buccaneers' 30-24 overtime loss to the Chiefs on Monday night.

Palmer generated modest production despite the Buccaneers' multiple wide receiver absences and his 49 percent snap share. The second-year wideout did record both of his catches on Tampa Bay's late-fourth-quarter game-tying drive, but he's yet to top three receptions or Monday's 33 yards in any contest heading into a Week 10 home matchup against the 49ers .

Palmer brought in both targets for 29 yards and returned two punts for 31 yards in the Buccaneers' 31-26 loss to the Falcons on Sunday.

Palmer was in line for extended opportunity due to the absences of Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (IR, ankle), and he indeed logged 51 snaps (70 percent). However, Palmer's numbers left much to be desired, and he's still in search of his first 30-plus-yard showing of the campaign. The second-year speedster will be on the field plenty again during a Week 9 road matchup against the Chiefs next Monday night.

Palmer is in line for an increased role in the Buccaneers' passing attack beginning with Sunday's divisional matchup against the Falcons due to the absences of Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (ankle), Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

Evans is expected to be sidelined through Tampa Bay's Week 11 bye while Godwin has been placed on season-ending injured reserve, meaning Palmer should be in for a multi-week boost in snaps and targets. The second-year wideout does have a solid amount of experience despite his relatively brief NFL tenure, having played in all 17 regular-season games and two postseason games as a rookie in 2023 and also appearing in five games thus far this season. Palmer has a modest 5-61-1 receiving line on nine targets in 2024, but he'll be poised for an immediate increase in opportunity while working as the projected No. 2 receiver alongside Jalen McMillan during Evans' absence.

Palmer caught one of his three targets for 16 yards in Monday's 41-31 loss to the Ravens.

Palmer was unable to get much going for fantasy purposes Monday, despite taking on a bit more of a prominent role with teammate Mike Evans (hamstring) exiting early in the first half of the contest. Palmer played the second-most offensive snaps (59) at wide receiver in the contest, but could only reel in one pass from quarterback Baker Mayfield. With Evans set to miss at least three weeks and Chris Godwin suffering what appears to be a season-ending ankle injury, Palmer will likely be called upon to play a more prominent role in Tampa Bay's passing attack, alongside fellow receivers Jalen McMillan and Sterling Shepard. Palmer and the Buccaneers are set to host the Falcons in Week 8.

Palmer (concussion) is active for Monday's game against the Ravens.

Palmer has suffered and recovered from two concussions over the last two months, missing Weeks 5 and 6 in the process. Even before his most recent absence, though, he gathered in only four of six targets for 45 yards and one touchdown in four appearances this season. Working in a receiving corps with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin doesn't leave much in terms of passes from QB Baker Mayfield for others, but Palmer at least will be back in action Monday, vying with Jalen McMillan and Sterling Shepard for looks behind the top duo.

Palmer (concussion) is listed as questionable for Monday's matchup against the Ravens, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Palmer logged his second consecutive practice with full participation, so presumably he just needs to clear concussion protocol in order to play. The second-year target has missed the past two games due to a concussion.

Palmer (concussion) was a full practice participant Friday.

It's a sign of progress after limited participation Thursday, but he'll still need to clear concussion protocol to play in Monday's game against the Ravens, at which point Palmer likely would be the fourth or fifth WR on Tampa's depth chart.

Palmer (concussion) returned to practice Thursday as a limited participant.

It's his first participation of any kind since entering concussion protocol during a Week 4 win over the Eagles. Palmer probably won't get much playing time on offense even if he returns for Monday's game against Baltimore, as he opened the season behind Jalen McMillan (hamstring) on the depth chart and may have since fallen behind Sterling Shepard as well.

Palmer (concussion) won't play Sunday against the Saints, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Palmer will miss a second consecutive game, which could lead to an increased role for Sterling Shepard, especially if Jalen McMillan (hamstring) remains sidelined as well. Palmer's next chance to suit up will be Week 7 against the Ravens on MNF.

Palmer (concussion) didn't practice Thursday, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Palmer is on track to miss a second straight game due to the concussion he suffered Week 4 while filling in for Jalen McMillan (hamstring) as the No. 3 receiver. McMillan, meanwhile, was a limited practice participant Wednesday and Thursday, hinting at a chance to return this Sunday at New Orleans.

Palmer (concussion) was a non-participant at Wednesday's practice.

Palmer has yet to mix into drills since suffering a concussion Week 4 against the Eagles. With no visible progress through the protocol for head injuries, he may be in danger of missing a second game in a row Sunday at New Orleans, but he'll have two more sessions this week to attempt to get on a path to suiting up. Fellow WRs Jalen McMillan (hamstring) and Kameron Johnson (ankle) were limited Wednesday, giving them far better odds to be available this weekend behind starters Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.

Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles said Wednesday that Palmer (concussion) is ruled out for Thursday's divisional matchup against the Falcons, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Palmer entered the NFL's concussion protocol during Sunday's game against the Eagles, so he never seemed a likely candidate to gain full clearance on a short week. With Jalen McMillan (hamstring) also ruled out for Thursday, Tampa Bay could have to rely heavily on veteran wideout Sterling Shepard and Kameron Johnson (hamstring) to pick up slack behind starters Mike Evans (knee/calf) and Chris Godwin. Palmer and McMillan will both work to return to full health in time to take on the Saints in Week 6.

Palmer (concussion) was listed as a non-participant in Tuesday's walk-through practice, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Palmer is highly unlikely to play in Thursday's game at Atlanta, having entered concussion protocol during Sunday's win over the Eagles. He was filling in for Jalen McMillan (hamstring) as the No. 3 receiver, a role that then fell to Sterling Shepard. With McMillan also listed as a non-participant so far this week, Shepard may again join Mike Evans and Chris Godwin as a regular presence in three-wide formation.

Palmer (concussion) was listed as a non-participant on Monday's practice estimate, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Palmer was forced out of Sunday's game against the Eagles due to a concussion, and given that the Buccaneers are on a short week, the wideout's status for Thursday's game against the Flacons is cloudy. With Jalen McMillan (hamstring) also banged up, the team's depth behind top WRs Mike Evans and Chris Godwin is currently taxed.

Palmer won't return to Sunday's game against the Eagles due to a concussion, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Palmer was serving as the Buccaneers' No. 3 wide receiver Week 4 with Jalen McMillan (hamstring) sidelined, but the former now will be subject to the protocol for head injuries in order to play again. With a short turnaround for Thursday's road matchup with the Falcons, Palmer will be hard-pressed to gain clearance from an independent neurologist for that contest. Kameron Johnson and Sterling Shepard will be the backup WRs behind Mike Evans and Chris Godwin for the rest of Sunday's outing.

Palmer is in line to serve as the Buccaneers' No. 3 wideout Sunday with Jalen McMillan (hamstring) ruled out, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.

Palmer will be returning to the role he filled throughout his 2023 rookie campaign, when he furnished a 39-385-3 line on 68 targets over 17 regular-season games and added four receptions for 88 yards and another TD during Tampa Bay's two-game postseason run. The Nebraska product has been stuck behind McMillan since the start of this season, but he could stand to benefit from plenty of single coverage Sunday as the Eagles likely devote plenty of resources to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.

Palmer failed to bring in his only target in the Buccaneers' 26-7 loss to the Broncos on Sunday.

Palmer played on just 12 snaps from scrimmage overall (21 percent) and added another five on special teams. The second-year wideout saw 20 snaps on offense in the season-opening win over the Commanders, but he's only combined for one more than that over the last two games. Palmer remains a fantasy afterthought for the time being in a No. 4 receiver role that hasn't facilitated many opportunities thus far.

Palmer wasn't targeted in the Buccaneers' 20-16 win over the Lions on Sunday.

Palmer was in on just nine snaps from scrimmage in the narrow victory after having logged 20 plays on offense in Week 1. Rookie Jalen McMillan seems to have clearly surpassed Palmer for the No. 3 receiver role for the time being, essentially nullifying the latter's fantasy value.

Palmer brought in one of two targets for 19 yards in the Buccaneers' 37-20 win over the Commanders on Sunday. He also returned one punt for 15 yards.

Palmer, who cleared concussion protocol before the game, logged a modest 20 snaps from scrimmage and 10 additional on special teams. Palmer's one reception proved productive, but he notably was in on 30 fewer plays on offense than new No. 3 wideout Jalen McMillan. Palmer figures to continue in a modest role during a Week 4 road battle against the Lions on Sunday.

Palmer (concussion) is active for Sunday's Week 1 matchup against the Commanders, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.

Palmer was able to practice in full all week, so the second-year wideout garnering active status was simply a matter of clearing league protocol for head injuries. With that box having been checked as well, Palmer is set to work in a reserve receiver role against Washington, potentially sharing No. 3 receiver snaps with rookie third-round pick Jalen McMillan.

Palmer (concussion) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Washington.

Full practice participation Wednesday through Friday suggests Palmer is more likely than not to play, but concussion protocol means it isn't quite the same guarantee as with other injuries. In any case, he's expected to drop from third to fourth on the depth chart at wide receiver, having been usurped by rookie third-round pick Jalen McMillan this summer.

Palmer (concussion) was a full practice participant Thursday.

As he was Wednesday, Palmer did enough on the practice field to be listed as full one day later, but there's been no indication from the Buccaneers that he's cleared the concussion protocol, which he's been in since at least Aug. 23. The team can shed any questions about his status Friday by not giving him a designation ahead Sunday's game against the Commanders, which would put him in the mix for targets along with Jalen McMillan behind starting wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.

Palmer (concussion) practiced fully Wednesday.

On Aug. 23, coach Todd Bowles said Palmer was dealing with a minor undisclosed injury, which was revealed to be a concussion on the Buccaneers' first practice report of the season Wednesday. Logging a full session doesn't mean that Palmer has made his way through the five-step protocol for head injuries, but he nonetheless appears to be well on his way to gaining clearance ahead of Sunday's contest against the Commanders

Coach Todd Bowles said Palmer (undisclosed) is tending to a minor injury, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.

After suiting up for both of the Buccaneers' first two preseason games, Palmer sat out Friday's exhibition win against the Dolphins, even though starters not named WR Mike Evans were available. Palmer now is among three of the team's wide receivers dealing with undisclosed health concerns -- also, Sterling Shepard and Rakim Jarrett -- so he'll use the time before Week 1 to get back to 100 percent. Rookie third-rounder Jalen McMillan appears to be the leader in the clubhouse for the No. 3 at the position behind Evans and Chris Godwin, and Palmer's current issue may solidify that thinking further.

Palmer brought in his only target for 10 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-7 preseason loss to the Jaguars on Saturday night.

Palmer and his primary competition for the No. 3 receiver job, rookie Jalen McMillan, each had one reception, so the competition appears destined to be settled in Friday night's preseason finale against the Dolphins. Palmer naturally has an experience edge on McMillan, but the latter has been building momentum throughout training camp and makes the final exhibition contest the deciding factor.

Palmer brought in his only target for 21 yards and returned two punts for 14 yards in the Buccaneers' 17-14 preseason win over the Bengals on Saturday night.

Palmer drew a start with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin both sitting out, and he made an impression on his one connection with Kyle Trask. The second-year wideout impressed as a rookie while taking hold of the No. 3 receiver job, but he's now trying to fend off a serious challenge from rookie third-round pick Jalen McMillan, who posted a 2-23-0 receiving line in his first taste of professional action Saturday night. The job battle between the two should continue through the entirety of the exhibition slate, but Palmer's roster spot is likely safe under any circumstance.

Palmer and rookie third-round pick Jalen McMillan are the top candidates for Tampa Bay's No. 3 receiver job, Joshua Queipo of Pewter Report reports.

Palmer, a 2023 sixth-round pick, held the role for nearly all of his rookie season, though he was perhaps miscast in the slot. New offensive coordinator Liam Coen said he wants to put Chris Godwin back in the slot as his primary alignment, which means the team's No. 3 receiver this upcoming season likely will play a majority of snaps outside. While that's perhaps good news for Palmer given his 4.33 wheels, McMillan has decent speed in his own right (4.47) and is slightly taller and heavier (6-1, 197, compared to Palmer's 6-0, 192). There's also the matter of Palmer being a much later draft pick and then struggling with his opportunities as a rookie; he caught just 57.4 percent of his 68 targets and averaged 9.9 yards per catch, which works out to a RB-like 5.7 YPT.

Palmer looks slated to run it back as the No. 3 wide receiver for Tampa Bay with Mike Evans having re-signed on a two-year deal and quarterback Baker Mayfield set to return via a three-year, $100 million contract, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reports.

Palmer will get a chance to build on a solid rookie season in which he logged a 39-385-3 line across 17 regular-season games, with another year to build offseason chemistry with Mayfield. The presence of two core wideouts in Evans and Chris Godwin will allow Palmer to focus on contributing as a complementary player, a role which could make better use of his field-stretching abilities than if the 2023 sixth-round pick had been asked to truly step up as a No. 2 receiver, and Evans allowed to walk.

Palmer brought in both targets for 32 yards in the Buccaneers' 31-23 divisional-round loss to the Lions on Sunday.

Palmer closed out his rookie campaign with a typical showing, making good use of a modest amount of opportunities with 23- and nine-yard grabs. The sixth-round pick followed up a 39-385-3 line across 17 regular-season games with a combined 3-88-1 tally in two postseason contests, and he could potentially be in line to assume a No. 2 role in 2024 if Mike Evans is allowed to walk in free agency this offseason.

Palmer brought in one of two targets for a 56-yard touchdown and rushed once for nine yards in the Buccaneers' 32-9 wild-card win over the Eagles on Monday night.

The speedy rookie was a hit in his first career postseason appearance, ripping off a 56-yard touchdown grab late in the third quarter on which he broke a James Bradberry tackle attempt and then outraced multiple defenders to the end zone. Palmer has enjoyed a steady complementary role since his Week 1 -- he recorded at least one catch in every regular-season game and had multiple grabs in 12 contests -- and he's now scored twice in the last three games. Palmer's field-stretching abilities could be a good fit for the fast track of Ford Field in Sunday's divisional-round battle against the Lions.

Palmer brought in two of six targets for 10 yards in the Buccaneers' 9-0 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

The rookie finished third on the team in targets, but he wasn't overly efficient with them on an afternoon where Baker Mayfield threw for just 137 yards overall. Palmer closed out the regular season with at least five targets in three straight contests and a 39-385-3 receiving line, and he'll now aim to continue producing in a third receiver role versus the Eagles' vulnerable secondary in Monday night's wild-card matchup.

Palmer (hip) is active for Sunday's game against the Panthers.

Palmer practiced in limited fashion throughout the week, suggesting he would be available to play. With his status confirmed, he'll be set to serve as Tampa Bay's third receiver after parlaying 11 targets into 126 yards and a touchdown in his last two games.

Palmer (hip) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Panthers.

Palmer will take an injury designation into the weekend after he was a limited participant in practices Wednesday through Friday while managing the hip issue. Mike Evans and Chris Godwin remain the Buccaneers' unquestioned top two receivers, but Palmer has carved out a solid role of his own as the team's No. 3 wideout over the second half of the season. He's drawn at least five targets in five of Tampa Bay's last seven games, putting together a 20-187-1 receiving line while carrying three times for 22 yards over that stretch.

Palmer (hip) was limited at Thursday's practice.

Palmer maintained his activity level from Wednesday's walkthrough as he tends to a hip injury, giving him just one more chance to get back to full participation before the Buccaneers potentially give him a designation ahead of Sunday's game in Carolina. If he's able to suit up this weekend, he'll look to build about his most productive two-game stretch of the season (8-126-1 on 11 targets between Weeks 16 and 17).

Palmer was limited at Wednesday's walkthrough due to a hip injury, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.

Palmer has had two of his top four performances of his rookie season over the last two games, combining for eight catches (on 11 targets) for 126 yards and one touchdown. With a health concern now in tow, though, his status will be one to watch as the week goes on to get a sense of his potential to play Sunday at Carolina.

Palmer secured four of five targets for 84 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 23-13 loss to the Saints on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

One would have likely gotten good odds on a bet that the rookie would have finished as the team leader in receptions and receiving yards on the afternoon for the Buccaneers, but that's precisely what came to pass. Palmer's yardage total was buoyed by a game-long 54-yard reception, but the highlight of his day was arguably an impressive 22-yard touchdown grab midway through the fourth quarter. Palmer's yardage total also represented a new career high, sending into the Week 18 finale against the Panthers with plenty of momentum.

Palmer brought in four of six targets for 42 yards in the Buccaneers' 30-12 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.

Palmer enjoyed a resurgence after multiple underwhelming games, tying his career high in receptions while posting his third-highest yardage tally of his brief NFL tenure. Palmer logged a solid 39 snaps on offense as well, seemingly cementing him as the primary No. 3 receiver despite the presence of veteran David Moore on the active roster.

Palmer brought in one of two targets for five yards in the Buccaneers' 34-20 win over the Packers on Sunday.

Palmer played 33 snaps to David Moore's 16, but it was the latter that made a splash with a 52-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter that sealed the game for Tampa Bay. Given Palmer now has two straight one-catch, five-yard efforts and hasn't eclipsed 20 receiving yards since Week 11, he could start yielding additional snaps to Moore in Week 16 against the Jaguars.

Palmer brought in his sole target for five yards and rushed once for three yards in the Buccaneers' 29-25 in over the Falcons on Sunday.

Palmer saw a notable drop in production, logging his lowest catch and yardage totals since Week 7. The speedy rookie's target tally also tied for his lowest of the campaign, and as the No. 3 receiver in a concentrated offense, his numbers are likely to remain modest in a Week 15 road matchup against the Packers.

Palmer secured two of five targets for 12 yards and rushed once for 13 yards in the Buccaneers' 21-18 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

Palmer finished a distant third in receiving yards and tied for second in targets on another modest-volume day for Tampa Bay's air attack. The speedy rookie hasn't cleared 22 receiving yards in any of the last four games, and he's logged between four and six targets in six consecutive contests. Palmer will look up his production in a Week 14 road matchup against the Falcons.

Palmer brought in four of five targets for 17 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-20 loss to the Colts on Sunday.

Palmer tied with Cade Otton for second on the Buccaneers in receptions, but he was a distant third in receiving yards with a total that qualified as his lowest since Week 5. Palmer has an abundance of speed, but he's rarely had a chance to cash in on it due to a confluence of factors and remains a deep-league option almost exclusively.

Palmer brought in four of six targets for 22 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-14 loss to the 49ers on Sunday. He also recorded a six-yard rush on his only carry.

Palmer's reception total was a new personal best for the rookie, but he was under 25 receiving yards for the second straight game. The speedster continues to enjoy a steady complementary role behind Mike Evans and Chris Godwin -- he's logged at least four targets in five of his last six games, including four straight -- but he's yet to exceed 51 yards in any of his first 10 games.

Palmer (neck/illness) brought in two of four targets for 21 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-6 win over the Titans on Sunday.

Palmer was able to record multiple receptions for the third straight game. The speedy rookie has also seen at least four targets in each contest during that span, and his 54 snaps Sunday actually put him ahead of both Mike Evans (47) and Chris Godwin (50). Palmer should continue to play a solid complementary role in a Week 11 road showdown with the 49ers.

Palmer (neck/illness) is officially active for Sunday's game against the Titans.

The rookie third-round pick was considered questionable despite putting in a full practice Friday, so it's not a major surprise he's suiting up for Sunday's contest. Palmer is coming off his most productive game of the season, as he caught three of four targets for 51 yards Week 9 at Houston.

Palmer (neck/illness) was a full practice participant Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Titans.

Palmer was a limited participant Wednesday due to a neck injury and then missed practice Thursday with the addition of an illness. A return to full participation Friday makes him more likely than not to be active ahead of Sunday's 1 ET kickoff. The rookie has been working as Tampa Bay's No. 3 receiver, getting only slightly less playing time than Chris Godwin and Mike Evans the past month.

Palmer (neck/illness) returned to practice Friday, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Palmer was a limited participant Wednesday due to a neck injury, then missed practice Thursday with the addition of an illness. His return Friday puts him on track to play Sunday against the Titans, likely filling his usual role as Tampa's No. 3 WR.

Palmer (neck/illness) didn't practice Thursday.

After logging a limited session Wednesday due to neck injury, Palmer sat out entirely one day later with a listed illness. As such, there seems to be a chance that he'll conclude Week 10 prep with a designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Titans. If Palmer is inhibited or even sidelined this weekend, Deven Thompkins and Rakim Jarrett would be in line for extra reps behind the Buccaneers' top WR duo Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.

Palmer was limited at Wednesday's practice by a neck injury.

Palmer has been a regular in the Buccaneers offense all season, but his production has gone from 6-42-2 on nine targets in the first four games to 9-125-0 on 19 targets over the last four contests. Now, though, the rookie sixth-round pick is dealing with a health concern for the first time in his career, so his status will be one to monitor as the week continues to get a sense of his potential to suit up Sunday against the Titans.

Palmer brought in three of four targets for 51 yards in the Buccaneers' 39-37 loss to the Texans on Sunday. He also committed a fumble recovered by Tampa Bay.

Palmer once again ran behind only starters Mike Evans and Chris Godwin in wide receiver snaps, logging a robust 48 plays from scrimmage. The rookie now has back-to-back three-catch outings, and Sunday's yardage total was a new personal best. Palmer has multiple receptions in four of the last five contests overall, pushing him into borderline fantasy relevancy in deep formats.

Palmer secured three of six targets for 22 yards in the Buccaneers' 24-18 loss to the Bills on Thursday night.

Palmer logged a robust and season-high 55 snaps in the loss, but he was only able to match his season high in receptions with the additional opportunity. However, the speedy rookie has encouragingly logged 15 targets and averaged of 42 snaps per game over the last three contests, supporting the notion Palmer's role has grown into that of a legitimate No. 3 receiver.

Palmer secured one of two targets for five yards in the Buccaneers' 16-13 loss to the Falcons on Sunday.

Palmer's output was especially disappointing in the context of his 47-snap workload. The rookie didn't exactly see many opportunities, however, and he certainly retains plenty of upside thanks to his blazing speed. Palmer could also be primed for a bump in targets if Chris Godwin (neck) is limited or out in a Week 8 Thursday night road showdown against the Bills.

Palmer brought in two of seven targets for 47 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-6 loss to the Lions on Sunday.

The rookie finished tied for second in targets and third in receiving yards with figures that were both career highs. Palmer was also narrowly missed by Baker Mayfield on another deep throw, and with a total of 85 snaps from scrimmage in the last to games, the fleet-footed wideout appears to have carved out a steady role in an offense that needs pass-catching playmakers behind starters Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.

Palmer brought in two of three targets for six yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 26-9 win over the Saints on Sunday.

The fleet-footed rookie did his damage close to the line of scrimmage Sunday, recording his second career touchdown on a one-yard grab just before halftime. Palmer saw Chris Godwin and Deven Thompkins enjoy bigger roles once Mike Evans exited the game with a hamstring injury, but Palmer could be in line for more targets in a Week 6 home matchup against the Lions if Evans can't recover sufficiently during the Week 5 bye.

Palmer recorded an eight-yard gain on his only reception in the Buccaneers' 25-11 loss to the Eagles on Monday night.

The speedy rookie logged a solid 34 snaps, but Baker Mayfield was limited to a 34.5 quarterback rating and sent 22 of his 25 attempts the way of Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Rachaad White and Deven Thompkins. Palmer's week-to-week production will remain difficult to trust as long as Evans and Godwin are healthy in front of him.

Palmer brought in one of two targets for 20 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-17 win over the Bears on Sunday.

Palmer managed to make an impact with his one touch, which came during an allotment of 35 snaps from scrimmage. Palmer notably logged only three more plays on offense than presumptive No. 4 wideout Deven Thompkins, however, an even smaller gap than in Week 1 when Palmer edged Thompkins by a 23-18 margin. The two speedsters will likely continue sharing complementary wideout snaps pretty closely for the foreseeable future, although the majority of Baker Mayfield's attention figures to continue centered on Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Rachaad White and Cade Otton.

Palmer brought in two of three targets for eight yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 20-17 win over the Vikings on Sunday.

Palmer checked in far behind position mates Mike Evans and Chris Godwin in overall production, but he joined Evans in crossing the goal line on the afternoon. The speedy rookie utilized his wheels on the crossing route that resulted in his third-quarter seven-yard scoring grab, one that capped an impressive 16-play 75-yard march and snapped a 10-10 tie. Palmer appears to have a solid hold of the No. 3 receiver role for the time being despite fellow speedster Deven Thompkins also putting some good play on film Sunday, and he could have some opportunities for downfield success against a vulnerable Bears secondary during a Week 2 home matchup.

Palmer appears to have earned the Buccaneers' No. 3 receiver spot, according to Rick Stroud of The Tampa Bay Times.

The sixth-round rookie scored a pair of touchdowns this preseason, making the most of his opportunity after projected No. 3 receiver Russell Gage suffered a season-ending knee injury. Palmer could still share snaps with fellow rookie Rakim Jarrett or second-year pro Deven Thompkins, with roles partially depending on how much time the Bucs want Chris Godwin (and to a lesser extent Mike Evans) spending in the slot. Palmer is more likely to get snaps outside, sporting 4.33 speed at 6-foot, whereas the 5-foot-8 Thompkins would figure to get most of his work from the slot and push Godwin outside in three-wide formations. Given Godwin's track record of success working the middle of the field, it's no surprise the Bucs are leaning toward Palmer -- a perimeter deep threat -- as the No. 3 receiver. It probably won't be a high-volume role in terms of targets so long as Godwin and Evans (groin) both are available, which should be the case Week 1 at Minnesota.

Palmer secured two of three targets for 25 yards, returned one kickoff for 26 yards and ran back two punts for 29 yards in the Buccaneers' 26-20 preseason win over the Ravens on Saturday night. He also fumbled once but recovered.

Palmer played a relatively modest 13 snaps, but that's actually a good sign -- the rookie has undoubtedly done enough to earn a roster spot after scoring a touchdown in each of the first two preseason games and then turning in a solid all-around effort on a per-touch basis Saturday night. The speedy sixth-round pick could have the inside track to opening the season as the No. 3 receiver in a Week 1 road matchup against the Vikings.

Palmer brought in his only target for a 33-yard touchdown in the Buccaneers' 13-6 preseason win over the Jets on Saturday night.

The rookie's stock already theoretically went up this past week with the season-ending knee injury suffered by Russell Gage, which came just days after Palmer put together a solid 4-33-1 line in his pro debut. The sixth-round pick followed that up with another trip to the end zone Saturday night, one that came with Palmer making a remarkable catch in which he tipped the ball to himself in the end zone while in tight coverage. Palmer appears to naturally be a lock for a roster spot, and his recent trajectory suggests he might have a chance of clawing his way into the No. 3 role with another strong showing in next Saturday night's preseason finale against the Ravens.

Palmer, a rookie sixth-round pick, is in line for an increase in snaps and targets in the wake of the season-ending knee injury Russell Gage suffered in a joint practice with the Jets on Wednesday, Jeremy Fowler and Jenna Laine of ESPN.com report.

Gage collapsed while backpedaling after making a catch during 7-on-7 drills and was subsequently carted off the field with what has now been confirmed as a season-ending injury. Gage logged 70 targets, including 18 in the red zone, over 13 regular-season games last season, although that also came with Tom Brady at quarterback and both Mike Evans and Chris Godwin missing games due to injury. Nevertheless, Palmer -- who already recorded a touchdown in the preseason-opening loss to the Steelers and also had a stellar practice against the Jets that included a long catch against star cornerback Sauce Gardner -- should certainly be in for a notable bump in his fantasy outlook considering the additional opportunities he's now in line for.

Palmer brought in all four targets for 33 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 27-17 preseason loss to the Steelers on Friday night. He also returned two kickoffs for 54 yards.

Palmer's name hadn't appeared in too many daily training camp reports leading into Friday night's preseason opener, but the rookie sixth-round pick sparked plenty of attention with his impressive performance. Palmer hauled in an eight-yard back-corner touchdown grab from Baker Mayfield in the second quarter, niftily tapping both feet just inbounds. The speedster also ripped off a 32-yard kickoff return on one of his two touches in that capacity, making a strong first in-game impression in his bid for a roster spot.

The Buccaneers selected Palmer in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 191st overall.

Palmer (6-feet, 192 pounds) was initially a standout recruit for LSU but transferred to Nebraska after struggling to earn playing time with the Tigers. Palmer's one season with Nebraska was a major success as his 4.33 speed made him a feared big-play threat in the Big Ten, resulting in 71 receptions for 1,043 yards and nine touchdowns on 111 targets. Palmer's speed makes him a credible downfield decoy if nothing else, but the issue is that he really might not be much more than that. Palmer's speed is real, but he cuts down the field like a javelin -- fast, but inflexible and bound to a rigid course -- so when anything goes slightly off schedule Palmer pretty much derails. If his skill set can add more polish then Palmer's tools would become more interesting.

The Buccaneers selected Palmer in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 191st overall.

Palmer (6-feet, 192 pounds) was initially a standout recruit for LSU but transferred to Nebraska after struggling to earn playing time with the Tigers. Palmer's one season with Nebraska was a major success as his 4.33 speed made him a feared big-play threat in the Big Ten, resulting in 71 receptions for 1,043 yards and nine touchdowns on 111 targets. Palmer's speed makes him a credible downfield decoy if nothing else, but the issue is that he really might not be much more than that. Palmer's speed is real, but he cuts down the field like a javelin -- fast, but inflexible and bound to a rigid course -- so when anything goes slightly off schedule Palmer pretty much derails. If his skill set can add more polish then Palmer's tools would become more interesting.