TAMPA, Fla. -- In a shocking turn of events, Tampa Bay Buccaneers starting safety Jordan Whitehead was involved in a two-vehicle accident on Saturday morning while en route to the team's facility.

The incident has raised concerns not only for Whitehead's health but also regarding the team's preparation for their crucial regular-season finale against the New Orleans Saints.

Both Whitehead and the driver of the other vehicle were rushed to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to police reports.

Fortunately, the injuries are not expected to jeopardize their recovery. However, the Buccaneers have confirmed that Whitehead will miss the Sunday game and will be placed on the reserve/non-football injury list, a move that could significantly impact the team's defensive strategy.

In an effort to fill the void left by Whitehead, Tampa Bay has called up safety Ryan Neal from their practice squad.

Neal will now be tasked with stepping up in a critical game against an arch-rival as the Buccaneers strive for playoff positioning.

Details surrounding the accident indicate that at approximately 9:30 a.m., local law enforcement responded to a crash at the intersection of North Dale Mabry Highway and West Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, which is less than a mile away from the Bucs' practice facility.

Witnesses report that Whitehead, who was driving his Corvette, attempted to turn left onto the eastbound lanes of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard when he collided with a GMC pickup coming from the opposite direction.

As of now, the investigation into the cause of the crash is still underway, and it raises questions about road safety around the busy intersection, which has seen more incidents in the past.

Reports also indicate that members of the Buccaneers' security and training staff quickly arrived on the scene to assist Whitehead, underscoring the team's commitment to their players' welfare.

This comes after Whitehead had battled back from a partially torn pectoral injury just weeks prior to regain his starting position for the Bucs' recent victory over the Carolina Panthers.

As the Buccaneers prepare to face their division rivals, the absence of Whitehead will undoubtedly be felt on the field.

Fans and analysts alike are left wondering how this unexpected turn of events will shape the outcome of the game and the team's playoff hopes.

Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops ahead of Sunday’s match!