The post 3 Buccaneers’ unexpected preseason roster reductions to keep an eye on before Week 1 appeared first on Muara Digital Team.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneersconcluded their preseason schedule with a 23-19 defeat against the Buffalo Bills. Tampa Bay ended the exhibition season with a 2-1 record, just falling short of an undefeated preseason campaign. Despite this, the coaching staff has gained valuable insight into who will make the final roster for the September 7th game in Atlanta against the Falcons.
Several of the team’s starting positions are already set, so the attention is now on the team’s bench. Following another solid draft in April, GM Jason Licht and the Bucs’ leadership will have a lot to manage as the season approaches.to securing the 53-man roster.Several prominent veterans are on the edge, but it seems as though many of the second and third-tier players already have their positions secured.
Safety Shilo Sanders was released after being ejected in the Bills game. TheBuccaneers will certainly makesome additional moves in the coming days to finalize their team for the opening game. Although many positions appear to be set, a few players might find themselves replaced as Licht and the coaching staff complete the roster before their journey to Atlanta. With running backs Bucky Irving and Rachaad White expected to have significant roles again in 2025, will Tampa Bay’s management choose to part ways with former Syracuse standout Sean Tucker?
Sean Tucker might be pushed out of the Buccaneers’ running back rotation
Of the three names listed,Tucker’s is the most unexpected.White is recovering from a groin injury, and there’s a possibility he could sit out their Week 1 game against the Falcons. Irving is expected to take on a significant role, as his impressive rookie season hints at a promising second year that could establish him as a star. If White is unable to play in Week 1, it would be logical to keep Tucker. After all, he has demonstrated moments of effectiveness, particularly with an NFC Player of the Week honor from a few seasons back.
However, young players Josh Williams and Owen Wright have also demonstrated moments of promise during the preseason and in training camp. It would not be unexpected for Licht to retain one or both of them, especially since White is still recovering from his groin injury. However, if the Buccaneers decide to keep both, be prepared to see them…move on from Tucker.Many NFL teams could benefit from additional depth at the running back position, and Tucker might find a more significant role elsewhere. If the long-time Bucs’ GM is able to trade back the fourth year, it could be beneficial for both parties.
Anthony Nelson must contribute more than just experience to the Buccaneers.
For years now, Nelson has carved outthe reliable backup role in head coach Todd Bowles’ defense. Even though he has only one year remaining on his current contract, it’s reasonable to wonder how much he truly contributes. At 29, Nelson has demonstrated his capabilities, and his limitations are clear to Bowles and his coaching team. Although the former fourth round selection is expected to play a significant number of snaps this season, it might be beneficial to explore what younger players can offer.
Tampa Bay is optimistic about former second-round selection Chris Braswell on the edge. It’s hoped that he improves during his second season. Starting players Yaya Diaby and Haason Reddick are set, as they are clearly the top pass rushers on the team. Although rookie David Walker will miss the season due to a torn ACL, the coaching staff will be eager to see if Markees Watts can have an effect. If they choose to…move on from Nelson,Don’t be surprised if Licht and the coaching staff aim to bring in another couple of fascinating young players.
Even with injuries, the Buccaneers might still have to let Trey Palmer go.
After being chosen in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, there was optimism thatTrey Palmer could beTo translate his physical abilities into production in Tampa Bay. Unfortunately, after two seasons, it seems Palmer won’t get that opportunity. The previous season’s string of injuries at the wide receiver position provided him with ample chances to make a difference. However, even with top receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin sidelined for a considerable portion of 2024, Palmer was unable to take advantage.
Currently, the receiving room has some injury issues once more. Godwin will not return until a few weeks into the season, and sophomore wide receiver Jalen McMillan will be out for a significant period due to a serious neck strain. Evans will continue as the top option, while first-round draft pick Emeka Egbuka is anticipated to become quarterback Baker Mayfield’s second choice. The team has released Rakim Jarrett, but Ryan Miller and Sterling Shepard have also presented compelling arguments for their spots on the roster. With the roster deadline approaching in less than 24 hours, don’t be surprised tocheck Palmer at the market by Tuesday night.
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