O.J. Howard in Walking Boot After Suffering Ankle Injury vs. Falcons

Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie tight end O.J. Howard suffered an ankle injury Monday night against the Atlanta Falcons and would not return.

Howard was seen wearing a walking boot after the game, according to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times.

The injury occurred while stretching for a touchdown in the first half against Atlanta:

The Bucs selected Howard with the No. 19 overall pick in the 2017 NFL draft out of Alabama, adding yet another weapon to benefit quarterback Jameis Winston.

Howard wasn't the focal point of the Crimson Tide offense, but he was a big reason why they reached consecutive national championship games in his junior and senior years.

As a senior in 2016, Howard finished with 45 receptions for 595 yards and three touchdowns, while also contributing in the running game as a solid blocker.

His all-around skill set made him an attractive option for Tampa despite the presence of tight end Cameron Brate, who had a breakout campaign in 2016.

Also, the Buccaneers signed speedy wide receiver DeSean Jackson to pair with Mike Evans during the offseason, which gave Tampa Bay its best group of pass-catchers in many years.

Thus far in 2017, Howard has registered 26 catches for 432 yards and six touchdowns.

Howard is still developing, and while he may eventually become Winston's favorite target, he isn't yet the cornerstone of Tampa Bay's offense.

There is enough talent in the passing game to make up for Howard's potential loss if he is forced to miss some time.

Brate will continue to be the No. 1 guy at tight end while blocking tight end Luke Stocker might be in line for more looks as a pass-catcher.

The biggest impact of Howard's loss would possibly be felt in the running game since the rookie is already a polished blocker who makes life difficult for opposing defenses.

Regardless of how long he is out, the Buccaneers are undoubtedly far less complete on offense without Howard in the fold.