Greg Gaines: Everything you need to know

Gaines posted 23 tackles (12 solo), including 2.0 sacks, across 17 regular-season games in 2025. Gaines played the 2025 season on a one-year, $3.5 million contract, his third campaign overall in Tampa Bay. The veteran remained in his customary rotational role, seeing action on 369 defensive snaps and recording multiple sacks for the first time since his final Rams season in 2022. Gaines has proven a solid fit for head coach Todd Bowles' defensive scheme, so a return to the Buccaneers on another modest one-year deal would seemingly be very much within the realm of possibility.

Gaines (toe) has no injury designation ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Saints, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports. The veteran defensive tackle upgraded from a DNP on Wednesday to a full session Friday, suggesting he's moved past his toe injury in time to suit up Sunday. Gaines has appeared in all seven of Tampa Bay's games this season, recording five total tackles, including 1.0 sacks. He's expected to serve as one of the team's top reserve defensive linemen in the Week 8 divisional matchup.

Gaines (toe) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice. A toe injury prevented Gaines from participating in Wednesday's walkthrough. He was back at practice Thursday in a limited capacity, and Friday's injury report will indicate his chances of playing Sunday against the Saints. Gaines' availability could be even more crucial, given that Vita Vea popped up on Thursday's injury report due to a foot injury.