Linebacker Derrick Brooks suffered a hamstring injury in the third quarter and his availability for next week's home opener isn't known at this time.

But the injury was at least somewhat serious considering it is unprecedented for Brooks to leave a game and not return.

"I've never had to do that," Brooks said after the Bucs' 24-20 loss here at the Superdome. "It's the first time I missed that much time in a game."

Asked about his status for next week, Brooks said, "We'll know more tomorrow after I'm able to get the proper tests and see what's going on."

It appears the injury happened on the second of two consecutive plays Brooks made against New Orleans' Reggie Bush. On the second, Brooks swooped in for an impressive takedown of Bush. But it turned out to be a bigger play than anyone knew.

"I tired to run on the next play and I was going to do more harm then
help," he said. "I've seen guys, even on our team, when something like that
happens, pride gets in the way and pride can end up costing you a
season rather than one game. So, I humbled myself and listened to the
trainer and we'll see where it is tomorrow."