Bucs defensive end Stylez G. White said he will return to the lineup Sunday against the Saints.

White, who had three sacks in three games since replacing Gaines Adams at right defensive end, missed Sunday's game at Miami with a shoulder injury.

White said he had been losing strength in his left shoulder/trapezius muscle and needed to rest it.

"I definitely anticipate playing this week,'' White said. "As far as I'm concerned, I'm playing. I'm cleared to go. Ready to go.

But coach Raheem Morris did not sound as confident about White's return.

"I think he'll practice this week. I'm not sure where he is. I'll have to see. We'll know more about it Wednesday.''

White, who did not accompany the Bucs to Miami, said it was difficult watching the team collapse in the final 1:14.

"It was tough,'' White said. "We work hard and to see Josh (Freeman), how he played, and the defense -- it's so close yet so far away.''