Vincent Jackson Injury: Latest Buzz on Status of Buccaneers' Star Receiver

For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it seems that things can't get much worse these days. 

So far this season, the team can't buy a win, starting quarterback Josh Freeman has been rumored to be seeking a trade, and now, the team's most dangerous receiver is injured. 

For now, ESPN's Adam Schefter says Vincent Jackson's injury isn't a major concern, but until we see the three-time Pro Bowl selection on the field for the Bucs' Week 4 tilt against Arizona, Tampa Bay fans have to be worried about the status of the 30-year-old receiver. 

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Jackson left Sunday's loss to the New England Patriots in the third quarter and did not return.

Buccaneers coach Greg Schiano said Monday that he is uncertain if Jackson will be available to play next weekend against the Arizona Cardinals.

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Jackson, who currently leads Tampa Bay in the receiving department by more than 135 yards, is actually on pace for one of the most productive seasons of his career, despite the dysfunctional play of Freeman under center. 

Despite the uncertainty regarding whether Jackson will be available for the clash with the Cardinals, NFL.com's Dan Hanzus  indicated that the Buccaneers did get some good news on Monday (via Ian Rapoport). 

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Vincent Jackson appears to be on track for a quick return to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Jackson did not suffer any broken ribs Sunday and should be OK, according to a person who spoke with the player.

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Assuming Jackson's injury is mild enough that he's able to return immediately to game action, Tampa Bay should have a legitimate chance at claiming its first victory of the season, but without the four-time 1000-yard man, it'll be a lot more difficult. 

At the time of the injury, ESPN's John Clayton suggested that it was possible that Jackson would return, so even when the former Northern Colorado star went down, he must have been feeling well enough to be contemplating re-entering the game. 

For now, Buccaneers fans will be waiting with anticipation to see whether or not their star receiver will be on the field this Sunday. At the very least, early reports indicate that there's a possibility he'll return for Week 4.