It’s time to brush the cobwebs off that pewter gray jersey that’s been in the back of your closet for eight months. Buccaneers football is back.
Whether you’ve been doomscrolling for contract updates all summer, or can’t quite remember the quarterback’s name, we’re here to get you up to speed and help you impress your friends at the next watch party. Here are a few key phrases to add to your roster (and what they mean):
“The Bucs did good business in the offseason.”
Yes they did. When the 2023 season ended with a heartbreaking playoff loss to the Detroit Lions, several key players were set to become free agents. That means their contracts were running out.
Since then, legendary wide receiver Mike Evans, quarterback Baker Mayfield, and defensive star Antoine Winfield Jr. all signed new deals with the team. Standout offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs wasn’t happy with his compensation a couple months back, but has since penned a new five-year deal to secure his TBAY future.
“Mike Evans is so underrated.”
He is indeed. Last year, Evans became the first player to record 1,000+ receiving yards in each of his first 10 NFL seasons. The 31-year-old has never played for another NFL team, and should be a strong contender for a Hall of Fame spot when he hangs up his cleats.
“It’s a big year for Todd Bowles.”
That’s the head coach. It’s Bowles’ third year in the role, and so far in his tenure, he’s won one playoff game. With senior players getting new aforementioned contracts, he’s got the guys he wants. If that’s not enough pressure, there’s also a crop of young talent in the roster. The Bucs have the third-youngest squad in the NFL, meaning a disappointing season could pave the way for a new era in 2025.
The Bucs’ first game is on Sunday, Sept. 8 vs. the Washington Commanders.
