RSS Bucs Team Notes

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers make first wave of roster cuts

The first of several dozen cut players leaked out Sunday as the Buccaneers trim their roster from 90 to 53.

The following 11 names have been reported thus far from various sources:

• Shilo Sanders, safety
• Will Brooks, safety
• Mike Greene, defensive lineman
• Dvon J-Thomas, defensive lineman
• Eric Banks, defensive lineman
• Jose Ramirez, edge rusher
• Rakim Jarrett, wide receiver
• Jacob Harris, wide receiver
• Owen Wright, running back
• Jase McClellan, running back
• Raiqwon O’Neal, offensive lineman

None of these are particularly shocking.

Sanders, son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, conjured plenty of name recognition as a UDFA but did very little to stand out on the field through three preseason games — unless you count throwing haymakers at a Buffalo Bills player and getting ejected in his final showcase to the coaching staff. Him coming back on the practice squad feels unlikely.

Jarrett, highlighted as a bubble veteran earlier this week, recorded his third rough game in a row as he finished with just 2 catches on 8 targets this preseason. While he had showcased some prior potential in the two years prior, his time has run its course as he’d been overtaken by names like Tez Johnson and Ryan Miller.

Jose Ramirez came to the Bucs as a Day 3 pick in 2023 and has lived on the practice squad, but he’s played in only four regular-season games and hasn’t built on the pass-rushing prowess he showed at Eastern Michigan. The practice squad could loom once again, but his chances to show something are dwindling rapidly.

Mike Greene has played 13 games (2 starts) for the Bucs over the last two seasons with 8 total tackles to show for it. He showed some improvement in limited looks last year and this preseason, which makes him a good practice squad candidate, but the presence of talented rookie Elijah Roberts made it a tough 3-way call between Greene, C.J. Brewer, and Adam Gotsis for a final DL spot.

The rest of these names really didn’t have much chance of making the roster to begin with, but their tenure with the franchise may continue if the Bucs deem them worthy of some of the 16 spots on the practice squad.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...034/buccaneers-make-first-wave-of-roster-cuts

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers release QBs Trask, Bazelak

The Buccaneers released long-time backup Kyle Trask and undrafted free agent Connor Bazelak, clearing the way for Teddy Bridgewater to assume the QB2 role.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler initially reported the news, with the Tampa Bay Times’s Rick Stroud adding that Trask sustained a shoulder injury in the final preseason game.

The #Bucs plan to release quarterback Kyle Trask, per source. He will revert to IR with a shoulder issue, then work out a settlement or release soon and look for a new team.

Tampa’s long-time QB2 on the move. pic.twitter.com/VWxPXCVDYp

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) August 25, 2025

In an earlier move, the Bucs also waived Bazelak, a 24-year-old rookie out of Bowling Green who showed some flashes, but they intend to bring him back on the practice squad per Fox Sports’s Greg Auman. It makes sense to keep a younger, developmental project as QB3 on the practice squad, like the team intended to do with Michael Pratt, who was released earlier in the preseason due to a back injury.

But the prevailing headline in this signal-caller shuffle is Bridgewater’s ascension to Baker Mayfield’s primary backup in just a matter of weeks. Bridgewater came in and quickly made an impression, starting the team’s second game against the Pittsburgh Steelers and easily outplaying Trask — Bridgewater went 6-of-11 for 85 yards and two impressive touchdown throws while Trask went just 3-of-1o for 19 yards.

Trask’s time in Tampa likely ends after four seasons (though he didn’t dress in his rookie year). A second-rounder in 2021, Trask never showed the requisite talent to be anything more than a backup as the team quickly overlooked him for Mayfield in 2023. In a microscopic sample size, Trask went 4-of-11 for 28 yards in regular season play.

Bridgewater, who was initially retired this offseason, came in after a controversial suspension from his high school head coaching job at Miami Northwestern after attempting to provide financial assistance to his players via Uber rides, meals, and recovery services.

Bridgewater, 32, was a first-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. Showing good potential and even earning a Pro Bowl nod in his first couple seasons, Bridgewater’s career took a sudden turn when he suffered a catastrophic knee injury that threatened his career and even his leg. He managed to recover but could never quite reach the same level.

He’s been a backup and spot starter for the New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, Miami Dolphins, and Detroit Lions. His career stat line includes a 66.4% completion percentage, 15,120 yards, and 75 touchdowns to 47 interceptions in 79 games (65 starts).

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...mp/65039/buccaneers-release-qbs-trask-bazelak

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

The good, the bad, and the brilliant: Baker Mayfield

Welcome to the good, the bad, and the brilliant. In this series, we will break down what a good, bad, and brilliant season would look like for different facets of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ organization. The Tampa Bay Bucs will be heading into the 2025 season as winners of the NFC South for the fourth consecutive year. For their quarterback, Baker Mayfield, what would constitute a good season? Conversely, what might leave fans shaking their heads? What is brilliance for a quarterback coming off 41 touchdowns a season ago? Introducing the good, the bad, and the brilliant: Featuring Baker Mayfield.

Baker Mayfield: The Good​

There has been a lot more good than bad with Baker Mayfield since he arrived in Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers’ quarterback began re-writing the narrative of his career in 2023, when he led the Tampa Bay Bucs to a 9-8 record, and a division crown, on the back of 28 touchdown passes and just 10 interceptions.

A major criticism of the pre-Tampa Bay version of Baker Mayfield was his ability to remain consistent. Throughout his time in Cleveland, Mayfield was often capable of putting together high-quality seasons, only to follow them up with underwhelming sequels. The NFL has only witnessed ‘Tampa Baker’ for two seasons now but the two seasons have represented his best run as a pro athlete. Mayfield has compiled 8,544 yards, 69 touchdowns, and just 26 interceptions. It feels as though, after not only repeating his success from 2023, but taking a step forward a season ago, Baker Mayfield has turned over a new leaf. No longer is he viewed a talented player with potential, who may or may not be relied upon, but rather a franchise quarterback and a building block for an organization.

For Tampa’s new found leader, a good season is just more of the same. Baker Mayfield has not had a bad one since donning the red and pewter. If his 2025 looks anything like his 2024 or his 2023 performance than the Buccaneers will have chance in every game they play this season and should find themselves knee-deep in the playoff hunt come December.

Baker Mayfield: The Bad​

The bad might not be as obvious as it was a few Augusts ago— Tampa Bay is lockstep behind Mayfield. The team (and fans) are no longer in an evaluation period with him as a player, but rather in a position of expectation.

Baker Mayfield’s 2024 campaign was not only a career year for him personally but also one of the best passing seasons in franchise history. 2025 does not need to look like that to be considered a good season, in fact at least a minor statistical step backward is likely, just due to how impressive Mayfield was a season ago. That minor decline in touchdowns or yardage won’t cause any unrest amongst Buccaneers’ nation as long as their passer is still under center and playing at a franchise quarterback level.

For Baker Mayfield, the bad is an injury— Time missed due to an unnecessary collision, or a steep decline in his level of play because rather than miss time, Mayfield decides to try and tough it out when he really isn’t able to. Baker Mayfield is an undersized NFL athlete and he is also a collision prone player. Whether it’s his extension of plays in the pocket, or his willingness to tuck the ball and run people over, he can be a high contact player at times. His decision to play recklessly, with his body, is one that can get him in trouble in 2025. Missed time would make 2025 a bad season for Baker Mayfield.

Baker Mayfield: The Brilliant​

For NFL quarterbacks, statistics can only hold you up so high— The ultimate measuring stick is winning. Patrick Mahomes stands alone amidst the current NFL landscape, however, Baker Mayfield is not in the Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, or Josh Allen tier of passer where every year is Super Bowl or bust. He nestles into the tier right beneath them where it is certainly playoffs or bust.

Tampa Bay has expectations. Baker Mayfield has proven himself capable, the team around him is strong, and should be a contender. If Mayfield wants to have a truly brilliant season it must be remembered for a postseason berth and subsequent deep playoff run, that features wins against high-ranking NFC opponents. A 10-win season followed by a loss in round one is no longer an illustrious success, it has become the expectation. Pressure and expectations are oftentimes not viewed as a privilege, however, in the case of Mayfield and the 2025 Tampa Bay Bucs, that expectation of success is representative of just how far both he and the team have a come. In order for 2025 to brilliant, Baker Mayfield and his Buccaneers must be featured in a deep playoff run.

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Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/65044/the-good-the-bad-and-the-brilliant-baker-mayfield

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers Reacts Survey: Kyle Trask cut, Teddy Bridgewater stays

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Buccaneers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...k-cut-teddy-bridgewater-stays-nfl-roster-cuts

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Then there was 53: Buccaneers finalize their 2025 roster

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers officially set their initial 53-man roster today, building their core ahead of the season opener. The team officially announced the full 53-man roster on X.

The initial 53 is set for our 50th season pic.twitter.com/LrMiw9wIjD

— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) August 27, 2025

This comprehensive lineup highlights several key decisions:

• The quarterback room has removed Kyle Trask and added Teddy Bridgewater.
• A mixed backfield of balance and versatility featuring Rachaad White, Bucky Irving, Sean Tucker, and Josh Williams.
• The wide receiver corps includes seven options, anchored by veterans Evans and Godwin, supported by rookie talent like Emeka Egbuka and Tez Johnson.
• Tight end, offensive line, and linebacker positions feature ample depth to create flexibility in formation and scheme.
• The secondary and defensive front are stocked to respond to both air and ground threats, with five safeties, six corners, and a mix of interior and edge defenders.

With the roster now set at 53 players, the Buccaneers can shift their focus entirely to their regular season, conditioning, and team chemistry ahead of their 50th season.

The team also announced the following roster moves to get to their initial 53-man roster.

Waived:

CB Tre Avery

QB Connor Bazelak

DL C.J. Brewer

S Will Brooks

WR Garrett Greene

DL Mike Greene

G Luke Haggard

WR Dennis Houston

DL Nash Hutmacher

LB Nick Jackson

WR Rakim Jarrett

DL Dvon J-Thomas

RB Jase McClellan

T Tyler McLellan

T Lorenz Metz

WR Trey Palmer

OLB Warren Peeples Jr.

OLB Jose Ramirez

S Shilo Sanders

G Ben Scott

TE Tanner Taula

RB Owen Wright

Waived (injured):

CB JayVian Farr

CB Tyrek Funderburk

LB Antonio Grier Jr.

C Jake Majors

G Raiqwon O’Neal

CB Roman Parodie

Terminated Contracts:

DL Eric Banks

DL Adam Gotsis

CB Bryce Hall

WR Jacob Harris

OL Michael Jordan

G Sua Opeta

QB Kyle Trask

Terminated/Non-Football Injury:

LB Anthony Walker Jr.

Waived/Non-Football Illness:

NT Desmond Watson

Placed on Injured Reserve/Designated for Return:

WR Jalen McMillan

Activated from Physically Unable to Perform List:

WR Chris Godwin Jr.

T Tristan Wirfs

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...-is-set-buccaneers-finalize-their-2025-roster

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

The good, the bad, and the brilliant: Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ pass rush

Welcome to the good, the bad, and the brilliant. In this series, we will break down what a good, bad, and brilliant season would look like for different facets of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ organization. Many of the Tampa Bay Bucs’ defensive struggles a season ago can be traced back one major flaw– pass rush. The Buccaneers’ lack of pass rush last season was an anchor for the team’s entire defense, not only putting a ceiling on their overall success, but exposing other weaknesses as well. With 2025 on the horizon, what would be a good season for Tampa’s pass rush? On the other end of the spectrum, what might leave fans disgusted? Beyond good, what would be a brilliant outing for Todd Bowles’ rushers? Introducing the good, the bad, and the brilliant: Featuring the Buccaneers’ pass rush.

Tampa Bay’s pass rush: The Good​

The Buccaneers’ pass rush has the weird dynamic of being bad– Unreliable/unable to impact the game in high leverage moments while still racking up a lot of sacks. In 2024, the Bucs tallied 46 sacks. That number slides them in for the fifth best mark in the league– The cliché that statistics can lie becomes extremely prophetic here. Tampa Bay has an elite pass rush by the numbers, however, if anyone watched Tampa’s defense for a few third downs last season they would quickly recognize the pass rush was the farthest thing from elite.

Todd Bowles has been able to forge the stats surrounding his defense’s pass rush via the blitz. Only the Minnesota Vikings blitzed more times than the Bucs last season. Bowles’ ability or need to manifest pressure has left Tampa far too vulnerable against the pass, where they allowed 4,147 yards a year ago. Pass rush cannot come exclusively at the cost of hemorrhaging your pass coverage. A good pass rushing season in Tampa Bay is maintaining a high sack total but not needing to sacrifice their back end as frequently to accomplish it– Stay top five in sacks, but instead of being bottom-five in passing yards allowed, push that ranking into the top 10.

Tampa Bay’s pass rush: The Bad​

The simplest diagnosis of any segment in the good, the bad, and the brilliant series so far has to be the ‘Tampa Bay Buccaneers pass rush: The Bad.’ The unit is bad, has been bad, and needs to do nothing new in order to be bad. Tampa’s pass rush (specifically their edge-rushing group) has been an obvious weakness for the Buccaneers for most, if not all, of Todd Bowles’ head-coaching tenure. If absolutely nothing changes for the Bucs’ pass rush in 2025, it will be a bad season– Just more of the same in Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay’s pass rush: The Brilliant​

What can the Buccaneers’ pass rushers do to be brilliant? In the offseason, Jason Licht and company made one major splash addition to their pass rush– Haason Reddick. Reddick’s tale is an odd one. An edge-rusher with elite caliber production that simply hasn’t found a long-term home. Reddick has bounced around from team to team since entering the league in 2017. Four teams and 59 sacks in eight seasons have landed Reddick on the Buccaneers where they will hope the spark that ends up rekindling his career is simultaneously the spark that ignites their team’s pass rush. The Bucs bought low on Reddick following his awkward single-season stint with the New York Jets– A long-winded holdout and subsequent underwhelming return to action (one sack in 10 games).

While Reddick, in name, celebrity, and anticipation is their premiere phenom, the Bucs’ pass rushers can find glory and brilliance without a triumphant season from the team’s new addition. Tampa simply needs what they don’t have and haven’t had. The Buccaneers’ defense needs a player to reach double-digit sacks. An individual registering a 10-plus sack campaign would be the team’s first since prime Shaq Barrett during the team’s title defense in 2021. Barrett reeled in 10 sacks during the 2021 season, capping off a three-year stretch of 37.5 quarterback takedowns. Unfortunately for Barrett, Todd Bowles, Bucs’ fans, and Tampa’s defense, three sacks into 2022 Barrett tore his Achilles tendon. The team has greatly missed and failed to replace him since. A brilliant season for the Buccaneers’ pass rush is someone (anyone) stepping up and filling the shoes left behind by the ghost of Shaq Barrett– Double-digit sacks and a consistent presence in must-pass situations.

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Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...-the-brilliant-tampa-bay-buccaneers-pass-rush

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

SB Nation Reacts: Bucs fans nearly split on Trask, Bridgewater decisions

When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers trimmed their roster down to reach the 53-man limit, decisions were made the part ways with long time backup quarterback Kyle Trask and keep veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.

In the latest SB Nation survey, we asked Bucs fans how they felt of the decisions.

According to the results, 55% of Bucs fans disagreed with the team’s decision to release Trask, who was seen by many as a promising young talent and potential long-term option at quarterback. Supporters of Trask cited his familiarity with the offense and his growth since being drafted in 2021.

At the same time, fan sentiment surrounding the new backup quarterback, Teddy Bridgewater, appears mostly positive. The survey showed that 52% of respondents approve of Bridgewater’s role as the backup. Many fans believe his experience and leadership bring valuable depth behind the starting quarterback, especially in high-pressure situations.

Still, the split opinions highlight the tension between maintaining a youth development strategy and leaning on veteran experience.

Be sure to check out our friend over at FanDuel Sportsbook for all the latest odds.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/...lit-on-kyle-trask-teddy-bridgewater-decisions

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

National pundits unanimously pick Buccaneers to repeat as NFC South champs

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are on the precipice of NFC South history. The team’s string of consecutive division crowns is currently tied for the most all-time. A repeat performance in 2025 would give the Bucs the record for the most consecutive division titles (5). One of the most prominent sports talk shows in the nation has no doubt Tampa Bay will capture the achievement.

First Things First of FS1 was amidst their yearly segment tabbed ‘predictions week.’ Inside of ‘predictions week’ the show goes division by division and each analyst lays out who they anticipate finishing first-last, going to the playoffs, and general forecasts for noteworthy organizations.

During their NFC South segment, the entire panel –in uniformity– selected the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to walk away from 2025 as NFC South champions yet again. “The Buccaneers [are] clearly the best team.” Said long-tenured analyst of the show, Chris Broussard.

His co-star, Nick Wright, took it a step further. Unafraid to be thunderous in his praise, he went on to speculate Tampa may be in for their best season in a while saying, “I think given their schedule and their division and [Baker Mayfield], they could be in contention for the number one seed in the entire conference.”

The show’s selection of the Buccaneers (and many sound bites of the segment) really emphasize the overall change in national narrative around Tampa Bay that has occurred in recent memory, but it’s also a tour de force for two men in particular.

Jason Licht has truly taken the Tampa Bay Bucs from woeful to wonderful– He has made the Buccaneers a winner. For a team that, less than 10 years ago, existed without most of the NFL world even knowing, to be the hands down favorite for their fifth-straight divison title is first-rate. Licht has come a long way as a GM and Tampa’s willingness to stand by him has been rewarded in spades.

Additionally, a standing ovation is warranted for what Baker Mayfield has been able to do. Mayfield came to Bucs on his career’s last legs– One or two bad games from potentially being out of the league. In just two years with the team, he is now viewed as not only a franchise quarterback, but the reason a good team is a good team. Greg Jennings, former NFL wide receiver, was featured on the show as a guest analyst and has this to say about Baker Mayfield, in comparison to his peers, “He’s just head and shoulders above everybody else in that division… He might [even] be waist above.”

Whether or not the Buccaneers are able to follow through on these takes/expectations is yet to be seen, however, credit needs to be given where it’s due. It has been a long road to arrive at this level of credibility. It’s a road Buccaneers’ fans should be honored to have walked and feel privileged to enjoy the spoils of.

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Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/...pick-buccaneers-to-repeat-as-nfc-south-champs

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

The good, the bad, and the brilliant: Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ secondary

Welcome to the good, the bad, and the brilliant. In this series, we will break down what a good, bad, and brilliant season would look like for different facets of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ organization. The Buccaneers’ pass defense a season ago was horrendous. Tampa was, as they have always been under Todd Bowles, good against the run. Against the pass, team’s feasted on Bucs’ defenders all season long. What was the cause? How Can Tampa avoid a repeat performance? What would make 2025 a good season for Tampa’s secondary? What’s a bad season look like? How can Tampa’s back end be brilliant? Introducing the good, the bad, and the brilliant: The Buccaneers’ secondary.

Tampa Bay’s secondary: The Good​

The Buccaneers’ defense struggled last year against in pass defense. Todd Bowles’ unit was exposed to the tune of 4,464 yards (third-worst in the league). They didn’t counteract that high yardage total with turnovers either— 7 interceptions, tied for fourth fewest in the league. Most of last season, the Buccaneers’ secondary was second-teamers. Tampa Bay had a grocery list of injuries last year and the injury bug was as contagious in the secondary as anywhere. Whether it was Jamel Dean, Bryce Hall, Antoine Winfield Jr., or Jordan Whitehead (a reunited safety tandem Buccaneers’ fans expected a lot of who barely touched the field together), the Bucs’ defensive backs were a position group that lacked depth before the start of last season and the team’s injuries exposed that lack of depth. As the 2025 football world teeters on the brink of game one, Tampa’s secondary has significantly more depth.

Depth, especially at the cornerback position, was a point of emphasis for Jason Licht during the NFL offseason. Licht drafted Jacob Parrish and Benjamin Morrison. He also went out and added Kindle Vildor, while re-signing Bryce Hall. The added depth at corner also translated to additional depth at safety as the team transitioned two players who have been safeties masquerading as part-time corners into roles that suit them better— Both Tykee Smith and Christian Izien have moved to safety for the 2025 season. Tampa Bay hasn’t gotten a full season’s worth of games out of Jamel Dean since he’s been drafted and over the last three seasons his games played have dropped each year. With Dean likely to miss time, other’s will need to step in and step up. Tampa Bay’s offseason plan has left them in a position of strength where they should be prepared.

Injuries cannot be avoided entirely— Some are to be expected, however, players cannot be brought up from the bottom of the depth chart as consistent starters for the second year in a row. The group has the talent, that talent just has to play. A good season for the Buccaneers’ defensive backs is to simply play— Be on the filed and the rest will take care of itself.

Tampa Bay’s secondary: The Bad​

Yin and Yang are at work when it comes to a good or bad season for Tampa Bay’s defensive backs. The team has talented players in their secondary, but the old cliché of availability being the best ability rings as loudly as church bells for Tampa Bay’s back end. The group has all that it could need to be successful, they just must maintain their health and availability for the defense. A bad season for the Buccaneers’ secondary is another season that features players filling starting roles who were never slated to be in those positions.

Tampa Bay’s secondary: The Brilliant​

The Buccaneers truly made a concerted offseason-effort to address and fix an issue that plagued their team last year— Pass defense. Plenty of on-lookers anticipated the rectification of those problems would hinge on the team adding pass-rushers. Jason Licht and co. viewed adding bodies to their ailing secondary as the cure. The debate over which helps your pass defense more, pass-rush versus pass coverage is really the chicken or the egg. Tampa Bay’s secondary, at times last year, did genuinely feel like they were just running out of bodies and adding a pile of talented players will certainly help the group reach ‘good’ status, but brilliance will be a step further.

For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ secondary to be brilliant in 2025, Antoine Winfield Jr. needs to play like the Antoine Winfield Jr. of 2023— Jamel Dean, like the Jamel Dean of 2022. Zyon McCollum told fans he was gunning for interceptions last season. He set the bar at six, a number he did not reach. 2025 is a new season and a new chance to achieve that goal. The Buccaneers have all the ability they need, it comes down to execution and the group’s ability to put it all together in unison. Can all the different aspects of the unit come together and play their best simultaneously? Brilliance is the group at it’s best, no new pieces needed, just the current ones on the field and performing.

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Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/...-the-brilliant-tampa-bay-buccaneers-secondary

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

NFL Week 1 Opening Odds: Buccaneers at Falcons

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are opening their season Sunday at Atlanta against the Falcons. This matchup will pin two of the NFC South division’s Top 2 teams and depending on who you ask the division champion will be either of these two hitting the field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. So what are the oddsmakers thinking of the regular season opener between the Bucs and the Falcons?

Per FanDuel, Tampa Bay is a 2.5-point favorite in Atlanta for the first week of the 2025 regular season.

Point spread: Bucs -2.5
Point total: 47.5
Moneyline: Bucs -132, Falcons +112

The Buccaneers are coming off their fourth straight division title after posting a 10-7 record in 2024. Atlanta finished in second place, two games behind Tampa Bay. Both teams made improvements this past offseason and will look to better each other and be a game up early on following the opening week of 2025.

The game between the Bucs and Falcons is scheduled for Sunday with kickoff set for 1:00 PM ET.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...egular-season-opening-odds-buccaneers-falcons

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers extend OT Goedeke

The Buccaneers made the pivotal move of extending stalwart right tackle Luke Goedeke on a four-year deal Tuesday.

Originally reported by Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times, the NFL Network provided additional details of it being $90 million over 4 years — a $22.5 million APY with $50 million guaranteed.

Bucs have agreed to a four year extension with T Luke Goedeke.

— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) September 2, 2025

Goedeke, who was slated for free agency next year, receives the third-highest deal for a right tackle in all of football, and it’s become well-deserved. Originally entering the league as a second-round pick from Central Michigan in 2022, the Bucs initially planned for him to replace Ali Marpet at left guard but that backfired immensely when Goedeke was one of the worst in the league. An end-of-season move back to his original right tackle position yielded much more encouraging results, and he’s ascended to one of the NFL’s best in that timeframe.

The 26-year-old is now poised to be in Tampa Bay through the 2029 season, which aligns with All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs. Wirfs, also 26, just signed an extension last August that made him one of the NFL’s highest-paid offensive linemen. Arguably a top-2 overall tackle tandem, the Bucs have created excellent protection for quarterback Baker Mayfield as he looks to continue his career-best stretch of play.

As a whole, the Bucs’ offensive line is all under contract for multiple seasons. Cody Mauch’s rookie deal runs through 2027, Graham Barton’s through 2028 (2029 if the fifth-year option is excercised), and Ben Bredeson through 2028.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-bay-buccaneers-news/65127/buccaneers-extend-ot-goedeke

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers release their first depth chart of the 2025 regular season

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers unveiled their official Week One depth chart Tuesday—highlighted by rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka immediately earning a starting spot in his debut season.

Offense sees veteran Mike Evans leading at wide receiver, joined by Ryan Miller. However, due to Chris Godwin’s continued rehab and Jalen McMillan’s preseason neck injury, Egbuka is poised to start alongside Evans, with Tez Johnson also listed among the top options. In the trenches, with left tackle Tristan Wirfs likely missing the opener, Ben Chukwuma will serve as the swing tackle while second-year lineman Elijah Klein will also be ready to go. The offensive line core remains intact, featuring Barton, Bredeson, Mauch, and others.

On defense, inside linebacker SirVocea Dennis earns a starting nod for the first time, while safety Tykee Smith partners with Antoine Winfield, Jr. It’ll also be the debut of new Bucs outside linebacker Haason Reddick.

Special teams see Riley Dixon named punter, with Chase McLaughlin handling placekicking and kickoffs. Emeka Egbuka also joins the special teams group as a designated returner alongside Rachaad White. However, it’ll be Kameron Johnson as the designated punt returner while also serving as a kickoff returner with running back Sean Tucker.

With key skill-position injuries and rookies stepping up, Tampa Bay’s depth chart sets an intriguing tone for Week One.

Check out the full depth chart below via Buccaneers.com. (Rookies marked with *.)

OFFENSE

WR: Mike Evans, Ryan Miller

WR: Chris Godwin, Sterling Shepard, Kameron Johnson

LT: Tristan Wirfs, Charlie Heck

LG: Ben Bredeson, Elijah Klein

C: Graham Barton

RG: Cody Mauch

RT: Luke Goedeke, Benjamin Chukwuma *

WR: Emeka Egbuka *, Tez Johnson *

TE: Cade Otton, Payne Durham, Ko Kieft, Devin Culp

QB: Baker Mayfield, Teddy Bridgewater

RB: Bucky Irving, Rachaad White, Sean Tucker, Josh Williams *

DEFENSE

DL: Calijah Kancey

NT: Vita Vea, Greg Gaines

DL: Logan Hall, Elijah Roberts *

OLB: Yaya Diaby, Chris Braswell, Markees Watts

ILB: SirVocea Dennis, John Bullock *

ILB: Lavonte David, Deion Jones

OLB: Haason Reddick, Anthony Nelson

CB: Jamel Dean, Benjamin Morrison *, Kindle Vildor

CB: Zyon McCollum, Jacob Parrish *, Josh Hayes

S: Antoine Winfield Jr., Christian Izien, Rashad Wisdom

S: Tykee Smith, Kaevon Merriweather

SPECIALISTS

P: Riley Dixon

PK: Chase McLaughlin

KO: Chase McLaughlin

H: Riley Dixon

LS: Evan Deckers

PR: Kameron Johnson, Tez Johnson *, Emeka Egbuka *, Rachaad White

KR: Sean Tucker, Josh Williams, Emeka Egbuka *

KR: Kameron Johnson, Rachaad White, Tez Johnson *

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...eason-depth-chart-emeka-egbuka-haason-reddick

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Bucs announce team captains for the 2025 season

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers officially announced their team captains for the upcoming season, confirming a leadership core steeped in experience and consistency.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield, wide receiver Mike Evans, and inside linebacker Lavonte David once again head the captain list. All three will don the gold “C” patch, signifying that each has served as a team captain for five or more seasons. Evans’ selection marks his ninth year as a captain, while David continues his extraordinary run of leadership, now reaching a 12-year streak.

Joining them are left tackle Tristan Wirfs, defensive lineman Vita Vea, and safety Antoine Winfield Jr., all of whom have also held captain roles for at least three seasons, providing vital continuity across the roster.

Head coach Todd Bowles praised the selections as a reflection of stability and respect within the locker room—including a blend of long-tenured icons and emerging seasoned leaders—setting a strong tone as the Buccaneers embark on their 50th NFL season.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...eason-baker-mayfield-lavonte-david-mike-evans

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers Reacts Survey: 2025 Regular Season Kickoff

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Buccaneers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/65124/buccaneers-reacts-survey-nfl-regular-season-kickoff

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Davy Jones’ Locker: Buccaneers vs Falcons Q&A with The Falcoholic

With the Buccaneers just days away from opening up their season in Atlanta against the division rival Falcons, they will be looking for some revenge after being swept last year. Both teams would love nothing more than to start off the 2025 season on the right note. To help break down this Falcons team, we spoke with Saivion Mixson of The Falcoholic to give us a closer look at this macthup.

1. We are now entering the first full season with Michael Penix Jr at the helm for Atlanta. What are the expectations for him this season and how confident are you in his potential as a franchise quarterback?​

“There are going to be growing pains. There’s no way around it. He’s a gunslinger, so he’s going to spray some throws, force a few into traffic, and make a couple of “rookie” decisions. That’s natural for a guy with just three starts under his belt who’s still adjusting to NFL speed.

But make no mistake: the kid is special. His arm talent is already top 10 in the league, and his feel for throws outside the numbers is elite. He’s got the juice to hit explosive plays downfield and the athleticism to avoid negative ones. This season, I expect the usual peaks and valleys of a young quarterback, but his ceiling as a franchise QB is limitless. “

2. The Falcons had the Bucs number last season, sweeping the season series. From Atlanta’s perspective, what went right in those games to come out victorious?​

“Last year, Kirk Cousins was surgical against Tampa. According to NFL Pro, he posted his two best games of the season versus the Bucs, generating 0.41 and 0.37 EPA per dropback. Elite numbers when you consider that MVP candidate Lamar Jackson led the league at 0.29.

That’s exactly why Cousins was brought in: to deliver in big games like those. But as the season wore on, the consistency disappeared, and Atlanta needed a quarterback who could create more on his own. That opened the door for Penix, and now this matchup looks a whole lot different. “

3. What was the Falcons biggest need this offseason? Do you think it was properly addressed?​

“The biggest need was easy: pass rush. Atlanta simply wasn’t affecting quarterbacks enough, and they went out and swung big. Landing Jalon Walker in the draft and adding James Pearce Jr. gives them two blue-chip pieces to build around.

Now, whether it was ‘properly’ addressed is where it gets tricky. I’m never a fan of giving up first-round picks unless you’re already in a Super Bowl window. But I get it, this front office is betting on itself. If it works, it could transform the defense overnight. If it doesn’t, Terry Fontenot won’t be around to feel the consequences. “

4. When looking at this matchup, what do you think is the biggest X factor in this game and why?​

“The X-factor is right tackle Elijah Wilkinson against this Buccaneers pass rush. If Wilkinson can hold up on the edge, it changes everything. Last season, the Bucs were 0-3 in games where they blitzed under 25%, including both losses to Atlanta.

If Penix gets time and the Falcons can keep Bowles’ pressure packages in check, Atlanta has a real shot to control this one.“

5. The Bucs are currently favored in the game by a very small margin. What is your score prediction for this one?​

“Everything says to take Tampa. They’ve owned the South for four straight years, and they’re built to make it five.

But at some point, the torch has to pass, and I think Sunday is that moment. Give me the Falcons, 27-23, in a statement win. “

The games are always exciting when these two teams meet, and we’ll see what Sunday has in store for this matchup. Thanks so much to Saivion for doing this!

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/...-buccaneers-vs-falcons-qa-with-the-falcoholic

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Zyon McCollum earns contract extension

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced today that the team has signed cornerback Zyon McCollum to a multi-year contract extension.

McCollum has appeared in 47 career games, with 29 starts, since being selected by Tampa Bay in the fifth round (No. 157 overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft. He has also appeared in all four of Tampa Bay’s postseason contests over that span. To date, McCollum has recorded 163 career tackles, 27 passes defensed, two interceptions, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.

McCollum has decreased his completion percentage allowed and his passer rating when targeted across each of his three seasons played, culminating in career-best marks in 2024 with a 58.4% completion rate allowed and an 85.7 passer rating allowed. Last season, McCollum also posted career highs in tackles (82), passes defensed (17) and interceptions (2). During the 2024 season, his 17 passes defensed tied for the third-most in the NFL.

“Zyon has developed into an every-down starter for us and continues to elevate his game each year,” said Buccaneers General Manager Jason Licht. “His athleticism, paired with his ability to limit opposing receivers, gives us a dependable and dynamic defender in the secondary. We are excited to keep an ascending player like Zyon in Tampa as we continue building around a young, talented core.”

Despite defending the third-most pass attempts in the NFL in 2024 (101 targets), according to Next Gen Stats, McCollum ranked fifth in lowest completion percentage when targeted (58.4%) and ninth in lowest opponent passer rating allowed (85.7). Per Pro Football Focus metrics, among cornerbacks with at least 1,000 snaps played in 2024, McCollum was the seventh-highest rated cornerback in the NFL in 2024.

A native of Galveston, Texas, McCollum played collegiately at Sam Houston State (2017-21), where he appeared in 56 career games and earned First-Team All-Conference honors three times (All-Southland 2018, 2020; All-Western Athletic Conference 2021).

(Courtesy of the Buccaneers Communications Department.)

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...aneers-zyon-mccollum-earns-contract-extension

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers at Falcons: Bold prediction and staff picks for Week 1

As the Buccaneers are set to open their season on the road against the Atlanta Falcons this week, we here at Bucs Nation will dive into some picks and a bold prediction for Tampa Bay’s kickoff to their 50th season in franchise history.

---

Bold Prediction​

The rookie shines in his regular season debut

Quarterback Baker Mayfield will have a new offensive weapon this season in rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. The former Ohio State product has wowed everyone during training camp and preseason. His crisp route running and sure hands will be something that will present a problem for the Falcons secondary as the focus will always shift to veteran wide receiver Mike Evans — which will naturally open things up everywhere else on the field. Look for Egbuka to break the 100-yard receiving mark and catch one touchdown.

---

2025 Week 1 Staff Picks​

Gil Arcia: Bucs 30, Falcons 21
Mike Kiwak: Bucs 27, Falcons 24
Evan Wanish: Bucs 26, Falcons 23
Will Walsh: Bucs 24, Falcons 23

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/...er-mayfield-staff-picks-nfl-week-1-mike-evans

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

SB Nation reacts: Bucs fans confident in the team’s direction

Buccaneers fans are excited for the upcoming season for many reasons. With the return of several names throughout both sides of the ball along with several new exciting faces, the Tampa Bay fanbase sees potential promise for the upcoming 2025 regular season.

This week, fans were asked if they were confident in the team’s direction ahead of the 2025 season. 93-percent of the fanbase feel they are heading in the right direction.

In a main SB Nation Reacts polling, fans cross the league were asked which teams would win their respective divisions.

In the NFC South, where the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, and New Orleans Saints reside along with the Buccaneers, more then 3/4 of the fans who voted feel the Bucs will win the division.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers season kicks off this Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons. If they get off on the right foot with lots good play centered around the new supporting class, the immediate future could be very bright for the Bucs.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/...fident-in-the-teams-direction-atlanta-falcons

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers Week 1 Top Performers at Atlanta Falcons

In common Week 1 fashion, both the Buccaneers and Falcons needed to shake off the off-season rust, and it could’ve been either team’s game as they traded blows.

However, Tampa Bay emerged victorious in a critical division road game with some late heroics and a little bit of luck as the Bucs defeated Atlanta 23-20 Sunday.

The Bucs got some critical contributions from several fresh faces, some rookies and some veterans, as they overall showed more good than bad. They didn’t get absolutely shredded by Michael Penix, Jr., who was making just his fourth start, and they again stuffed the run at an elite level as they’ve consistently done under Todd Bowles.

Let’s give some season-opening shoutouts as we exhale and recollect for next week and Monday Night Football against the Houston Texans.

Offensive Top Performer: WR Emeka Egbuka​

Though plenty of people got caught doing the shocked Pikachu face after Tampa selected Egbuka 19th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, it’s proven to be the smartest move GM Jason Licht could’ve possibly made given Chris Godwin’s recovery and Jalen McMillan’s neck injury.

Arguably the cleanest receiver evaluation in the entire draft, Egbuka came in with elite production (Ohio State’s all-time receptions leader) and character, and he’s earned nothing but praise from everyone in the building. He proved it was well-deserved Sunday by scoring two touchdowns, including the go-ahead score with barely a minute remaining in the game.

EMEKA EGBUKA. THE ROOKIE. AGAIN.

TBvsATL on FOXhttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/pLyQEvaSG4

— NFL (@NFL) September 7, 2025

He finished as the team’s receiving leader on a day where QB Baker Mayfield (and new offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard) clearly needed to get up to speed and Mike Evans faced plenty of bracketed coverage — Egbuka caught 4 passes for 67 yards and the scores. The future seems to be shining bright for No. 2.

Finally, the offensive line needs props. It came out just before kickoff that the Bucs opted for a completely new starting configuration. Center Graham Barton kicked out to left tackle(!!), Ben Bredeson went from left guard to center, and newly signed Mike Jordan started at left guard. This was a risky gambit when everyone just assumed Charlie Heck would take over for Tristan Wirfs at left tackle. However, it worked out as Baker got sacked only once and largely had the time he needed for most of the game. We’ll see how it works against a much better Houston front, but early returns were encouraging.

Defensive Top Performer: EDGE Haason Reddick​

When Egbuka got picked, most originally assumed that selection would go toward pass-rushing reinforcements. While the team did address that later on via Day 3 picks David Walker (who unfortunately tore his ACL in training camp) and Elijah Roberts, brass made it clear they trusted in their only major outside free agent signing — edge rusher Haason Reddick.

The near 31-year-old had a tumultuous 2024 with the New York Jets that saw him barely play, so he was a bit of an unknown commodity. It’s just one game against a compromised Atlanta offensive line starting its third-string tackle, but Reddick looked quite good.

He recorded multiple pressures and the team’s only sack, which came at a vital time. With the Falcons threatening for the first time in the red zone, Reddick sacked Penix Jr. on third down to force a field goal attempt. Frequently, the Bucs would need to resort to blitzing in those situations the last couple seasons given the lack of proven 1-on-1 winners. If Reddick can do that consistently, the Bucs’ defense will be much better off for it.

First sack for @Haason7Reddick as a Buccaneer

: #TBvsATL on FOX pic.twitter.com/CbIVyhHbik

— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) September 7, 2025

Zyon McCollum, who received a healthy contract extension just a few days ago, played very well. He totaled 10 tackles and nearly had two interceptions while helping to limit top Atlanta target Drake London to just 55 yards on 8 catches. He got dinged up with an apparent arm injury late in the game but came back in to finish. He was much improved last year, so further development and fully assuming CB1 duties would be a huge win.

Finally, Antoine Winfield Jr. needs recognition. Injured most of last season, Winfield looks much refreshed, and he made his presence felt with 4 total tackles and an incredible pass breakup on Atlanta’s final drive that would’ve put the Falcons within Tampa’s 5-yard line at the least had it been completed.

Special Teams Top Performer: PR Kam Johnson​

As massively disappointing as Chase McLaughlin’s very-bad-no-good day was, other elements of the special teams stepped up to create some pivotal advantages.

One such play came from second-year player Kam Johnson. Widely considered a long-shot for the roster because of injuries that cost him most of last year and almost all of preseason, Johnson snuck onto the squad thanks to his special teams juice — which he readily put on display Sunday.

Johnson logged a 54-yard punt return, which marked the team’s longest in nearly 10 years since Bobby Rainey returned one 58 yards in October 2015. By comparison, the biggest one Tampa got last year was…17 yards. The return positioned the Bucs for a crucial touchdown.

Kam Johnson with a big punt return of 53-yards to set the offense up with good field position

: @Buccaneers

pic.twitter.com/8leaSFk2gT

— SleeperBucs (@SleeperTBBUCS) September 7, 2025

Riley Dixon, also making his Bucs debut, looked to stabilize the team’s punter woes and did so very well. He punted four times and averaged 51.3 yards, including a long of 62 and two that pinned Atlanta inside their 20. If he can continue that standard, the Bucs will be in much better shape than all of 2024.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...eers-week-1-top-performers-at-atlanta-falcons

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

NFL Week 2 Opening Odds: Buccaneers at Texans

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers opened the season with a 23-20 win against the Falcons in Atlanta. It wasn’t pretty as the Bucs struggled offensively for most of the game. Fortunately, after a shaky beginning, the Buccaneers defense did settle down and held Michael Penix, Jr. and the Atlanta offense in check for most of the game.

But how do the oddsmakers feel about Tampa Bay’s next matchup in Houston against the Texans? Per FanDuel, Houston is a 2.5-point favorite in Atlanta for the first week of the 2025 regular season.

Point spread: Texans -2.5
Point total: 44.5
Moneyline: Bucs +108, Texans -126

Like the Buccaneers offense, Houston has also struggled offensively against the Rams in Los Angeles. At the time of this writing, the Texans haven’t even broken the 200-yard mark offensively in L.A. and they are in the 4th quarter with 12 minutes left to play. It’s a trend across the league where we are seeing offensive struggles throughout the NFL with several teams unable to get into a consistent rhythm offensively.

Will that continue into Week 2? Next week’s game between the Bucs and Texans is scheduled for Monday night with kickoff set for 7:00 PM ET.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...week-2-opening-odds-buccaneers-texans-falcons