The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ draft history since Super Bowl LV took another hit with former first-round pick Joe Tryon-Shoyinka retiring after just five NFL seasons. The Buccaneers selected the Washington edge rusher with the No. 32 pick in 2021, hoping he would become a long-term defensive asset, but his career failed to live up to those expectations.
Tampa Bay finds itself in a different phase now. Quarterback Baker Mayfield is entering a crucial contract year, and former Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings recently suggested that Mayfield should adopt a tougher business stance while waiting for a contract extension. Although the Buccaneers have a competitive roster, the pressure is mounting because the team needs more than just established stars to keep their championship window open.
While the Buccaneers are not in a full rebuild, significant changes have created new pressure points, particularly within the offensive skill positions and the pass rush. Mayfield’s contract situation will be the focus of much attention, as will the transition for receivers after Mike Evans. However, the success of Tampa Bay's 2026 season may also hinge on players who are currently flying under the radar.
Historically, the best versions of the Buccaneers have included star players. Still, they also relied on a strong supporting cast: rotational pass rushers, special teams contributors, backup running backs who excelled in limited roles, and young players who turned smaller opportunities into substantial weekly contributions.
This year, two players fit that mold.
Sean Tucker, RB
Nov 16, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Sean Tucker (44) runs the ball for a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the second half of the game at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Sean Tucker is often overlooked because Bucky Irving has emerged as the face of Tampa Bay’s backfield. Irving earned that status through his explosiveness, balance, and ability to make plays even when the blocking isn’t perfect. The offense takes on a different dynamic when the ball is in his hands.
The Buccaneers’ official depth chart lists Tucker behind Irving but also identifies him as a candidate for kick-return duties, a significant dual role. A backup running back who can contribute on special teams has a clearer path to game-day relevance than one who waits solely for offensive snaps.
Coaches value players who can make an impact in multiple phases of the game, and Tucker has a chance to become one of those valuable contributors. So, Tampa Bay needs a secondary back who can keep the running game effective without overworking the starter, and a full NFL season is too long to rely on just one running back. Even if Irving remains healthy, the Buccaneers will need a change-of-pace back, someone who can handle late-game carries and maintain the rotation to preserve players' stamina.
They don’t need Tucker to become a 20-touch player. Still, they need him to be dependable enough so that the offense doesn’t lose rhythm when substitutions occur, and this requires solid pass protection, decisive running, and adequate receiving skills to avoid signaling play calls. A backup running back who only appears in obvious running situations makes it easier for defenses.
There’s also a timing element to this, in the end, as Mayfield tends to play with confidence when the offense stays ahead of schedule. Falling into too many second-and-long situations makes the passing game more predictable and increases pressure on a reshaping receiver corps.
His return skills could also play a role in his breakout potential, and while it may not generate fantasy buzz, it is crucial for roster construction and field position. A strong returner who can also contribute offensively offers a unique value, and such a role can develop quietly until fans realize the player has become essential.
The opportunity is present.
Irving will continue to be the starting running back, and Tampa Bay has enough offensive uncertainty that anyone who can provide stability will be rewarded. He can also become that player by turning limited touches into effective gains and giving the coaching staff a reason to increase his role on game days.
Chris Braswell, LB
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Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Chris Braswell (41) reacts in the first quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Chris Braswell is at a crucial point in his career. The Buccaneers drafted him in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, and that kind of investment comes with high expectations.
According to his official player profile, Braswell is entering his third season, having recorded 20 solo tackles and one sack in 2025. Those numbers do not scream “breakout,” but they clearly highlight the situation. The Bucs have already been patient as he developed, and now they need to see his athletic traits translate into production.
Currently, Braswell is listed behind Yaya Diaby on the outside linebacker depth chart, which presents both challenges and opportunities. Diaby is the more established player, and Anthony Nelson remains a part of the edge rotation. Tampa Bay also has younger defensive players eager for roles, meaning Braswell won't be handed anything on a silver platter.
This competitive environment could be beneficial for him because, with a crowded edge group, clarity is key: a player must either generate pressure, set the edge, and earn trust, or risk fading into a limited role. For Braswell, the path to a breakout season starts with making an impact in pass rush.
They need more consistent disruption without relying solely on blitzes, and Todd Bowles is skilled at scheming pressure, but the defense becomes far more formidable when outside linebackers can win one-on-one matchups quickly.
In the end, they truly don't expect him to become a double-digit sack player overnight, but they need him to be a consistent nuisance. Pressures and forced hurried throws matter, and a strong early-down edge setting is also important. A young outside linebacker capable of doing these things becomes invaluable, even before the sack totals rise.
This season is also critical for Tampa Bay to evaluate its roster, as the retirement of Joe Tryon-Shoyinka serves as a reminder that edge investments can quickly fade when production wanes. While Braswell is not in that category yet, the organization cannot wait indefinitely for a second-round player to realize his potential. By Year 3, they need to see visible progress.
The good news is that Braswell’s role can expand without necessitating a complete defensive overhaul. He can rotate in, take advantage of specific matchups, and gain momentum through a more focused pass-rush plan, and a strong performance in training camp will be important, but the ultimate test will come in actual games, where tackles will not give him easy opportunities.
So, a stronger Braswell would give the Bucs more flexibility on passing downs, allow the rest of the edge group to rest, and create pressure without putting the secondary at risk. Such development can significantly impact the defense.
The Buccaneers’ season will still hinge on players like Mayfield, the offensive line, the health of key players, and the defense’s ability to stay aggressive without being reckless, but playoff teams are rarely composed solely of well-known names. Tucker and Braswell represent two different types of under-the-radar players, and neither player needs to be the franchise's face, but their roles are more practical, and they need to convert opportunities into trust.
The Bucs have enough talent to compete, but their potential success may rely on whether players like Tucker and Braswell can stop being sleepers and start becoming reliable contributors.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ draft history since Super Bowl LV took another hit with former first-round pick Joe Tryon-Shoyinka retiring after just five NFL seasons. The Buccaneers selected the Washington edge rusher with the No. 32 pick in 2021, hoping he would become a long-term defensive asset, but his career failed to live up to those expectations.