“I’ve known Tom for a long time and I’m always impressed with his consistency, his dedication to take care of himself, it’s amazing,” Ryan said. “He’s throwing it as good as he ever has and to me that’s incredibly impressive.”
Tampa Bay’s biggest concern heading into the regular season will be protecting the 45-year-old Brady after the offensive line took two more hits Saturday.
Center Robert Hainsey (left ankle) and guard Nick Leverett (shoulder) left early and did not return. Bowles said both would have X-rays in the next two days but declined to speculate how much time, if any, they might miss.
Hainsey started Saturday in place of injured Pro Bowler Ryan Jensen, who was carted off the practice field on the second day of training camp. The Bucs also need replacements for recently retired Pro Bowl guard Ali Marpet and guard Aaron Stinnie, who has a season-ending knee injury.
Backup safety Armani Watts looked as if he might win a spot on the Colts’ 53-man roster — until injuring his right ankle on Saturday’s opening kickoff. Watts was eventually carted off the field and did not return.
“It’s an ankle injury that’s going to keep him out for the year,” Reich said. “He’s going to have to have a procedure done. I don’t want to confirm all the details but it was a pretty significant injury.”
Buccaneers: While Evans didn’t catch a pass, Jones had one reception for 20 yards. Fournette had two carries for 13 yards and one catch for 2 yards. … Vaughn had nine carries for 36 yards. … Blaine Gabbert was 5 of 7 for 46 yards.
Colts: Ryan was 5 of 7 for 59 yards and was sacked once. Backup Nick Foles finished 3 of 5 for 24 yards. … Michael Pittman Jr. caught three passes for 29 yards. … Indy’s top two running backs, Jonathan Taylor and Nyheim Hines, did not play.
Buccaneers: Open the regular season at Dallas on Sept. 11.
Colts: Visit Houston on Sept. 11.
