Tampa Bay Buccaneers All-Pro defensive end Gerald McCoy appeared to be headed toward the season-ending injured reserve following Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions after suffering what was believed to be the third torn biceps injury of his career.

However, the 29-year-old was able to avoid surgery that now has his eyes on getting back on the field in Week 15 against the Atlanta Falcons.

By way of Scott Smith of Buccaneers.com.

“Nobody likes going under the knife,” said McCoy. “It's not fun. So that's definitely a blessing. I'm just going to keep rehabbing it and do my best. I would like to be [ready for Monday] but I don't know yet. Let's take it day by day and see what happens.”

McCoy has been one of the league's top defensive linemen over the last several seasons, racking up five consecutive Pro Bowl selections, three First-Team All-Pro nods, and a Second-Team All-Pro selections over that span. During that period of time he has proven to be quite durable despite the numerous injuries playing at least 13 games in each season. He currently has 40 tackles, 5.0 sacks, and nine run stuffs while taking the field in all 13 games this year.

Although he hasn't practiced this week, McCoy is focused on getting back on the field to play against the Falcons on Monday night. The Buccaneers still have a tough remaining schedule ahead against the Falcons, New Orleans Saints, and Carolina Panthers, who are all fighting for playoff spots.

Given McCoy's well-documented history of playing through injury, this could ultimately come down to a game-time decision.