The five-time Pro Bowler managed to collect his 100^e career-high touchdown reception on the Bucs’ first possession, though he appeared to be working after that play — his only catch of the game — and finished another TD catch attempt in the second quarter, writhing in pain before he left for good.

Evans’ recovery timeline means he will miss at least the upcoming NFC South showdown with the Falcons, plus back-to-back games against last season’s Super Bowl representatives, the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers.

Through seven weeks, Evans has 26 receptions for 335 yards and is tied for the league lead with six touchdown catches. His counterpart Chris Godwin, currently leading in receptions (50), will be missing even longer for Tampa Bay. He likely suffered a season-ending ankle dislocation with just over a minute remaining during an ill-fated Bucs comeback attempt.

The Buccaneers are now 4-3 in a tie at the top of the division with Atlanta and will now need to pick up wins without their top two being threatened in the near future.

Rookie wideout Jalen McMillan in the third round could see a lot more work. He has just six catches this year, but seems like the most natural replacement for Godwin in the slot. Trey Palmer and Sterling Shepard will also be counted on to fill the void left by Evans’ injury, as will Cade Otton.

In just a few quarters of action, the prospects for Tampa Bay’s fourth-ranked scoring offense changed dramatically.

Baker Mayfield, also leading the league with 18 touchdown passes, has his work cut out for him to maintain the best start of his career as he and the Buccaneers move forward.