The Tampa Bay Buccaneers took a step backward on defense last season while the offense carried the team.
Todd Bowles' unit was plagued by coverage issues, lack of quarterback pressure and nagging injuries.
Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. didn't have his best season last year after signing a record four-year, $84.1 million deal last offseason. But he's committed to being part of the solution in 2025 for a hopefully resurgent defense under Todd Bowles.
Bowles is impressed with the work he's put in so far this summer.
"He's been great," said Head Coach Todd Bowles on Tuesday, the third day of June in the midst of the Buccaneers' run of OTA practices. "I mean, he looks like he's in great shape. He's been here almost every day. He puts in the work, he puts in the time, and I like where he's at right now."
After the Bucs snagged just seven interceptions all season last year, Winfield knows that's an area that the team needs to improve for 2025.
"Working in practice," said Winfield about creating takeaways. "I feel like I say this all the time when it's like, 'What do you do?' You have to work it in practice. You have to get those looks in practice so when it's a game, it's just muscle memory. You see the ball, punch it out. If it's on the floor, pick it up, scoop and score. It's just all muscle memory and just practice."
Last season seems like a deviation from his normal football life, as each season prior, he's been one of the best players on the field. Injuries certainly led to a part of that last year, and he's focused on fixing that for the upcoming campaign.
"It's football," said Winfield of his injury-led detour in 2024. "It's part of the game. Injuries happen but I'm excited for this year. Year 6 already, it's flying by. I feel like I still just got here. I'm excited for this year."