The Buccaneers offensive line could be without two key pieces this weekend, so the team has added some reinforcement from the practice squad. Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times reports (via Twitter) that the Bucs have promoted guard/center Ben Gottschalk from the practice squad.
Gottschalk, an undrafted rookie out of SMU in 2014, could make his NFL debut this weekend. Left guard Kevin Pamphile (concussion) and center Joe Hawley (knee) are not expected to play, forcing backups Evan Dietrich-Smith and Caleb Benenoch into the starting lineup. As a result of the lineup changes, the Buccaneers would only have two lineman, Leonard Wester and Gosder Cherilus, on the bench. Gottschalk’s ability to play both guard and center should allow him to see some snaps against the Bears.
The 24-year-old has been on the Buccaneers practice squad all season. The lineman previously spent time with the Chiefs and 49ers.