Buccaneers, Falcons Prepare for NFC South Season Opener Amid Key Injuries

The 2025 NFL season kicks off with a key NFC South matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Atlanta Falcons, featuring several critical individual battles that could determine the outcome. Tampa Bay's offseason addition Haason Reddick poses a major threat to the Falcons' weakened offensive line, especially with Atlanta missing starting right tackle Kaleb McGary, potentially disrupting quarterback Michael Penix Jr.'s passing game. Penix, the Falcons' young quarterback and team captain, will make his first opening-day start amid uncertainties about his ability to lead the team, particularly after being chosen over highly paid Kirk Cousins. Tampa Bay could be without rookie cornerback Benjamin Morrison due to a lingering hamstring injury, which would impact their secondary depth against an Atlanta offense that added new weapons. The Buccaneers also face concerns over limited depth on their offensive and defensive lines and will rely on new offensive playcaller Josh Grizzard to maintain their strong third-down efficiency. Both teams enter the season with high expectations but also notable question marks as they prepare for this pivotal divisional opener.