The Tampa Bay Buccaneers turned plenty of heads when they selected wide receiver Emeka Egbuka in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
With needs at other positions and having veteran receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin Jr., it was a shocking pick at No. 19 overall.
Fast forward to today, and the Bucs are ecstatic about that selection, with quarterback Baker Mayfield recently gushing about the rookie.
“He’s so cerebral, he pays attention to everything. He can play any receiver spot. That’s the versatility. If you’re able to do more and at a high level like he does, it’s great for us,” Mayfield said on “Up & Adams.”
“He’s so cerebral, he pays attention to everything… he can play any receiver spot…" 🤩🤩🤩
HIGH PRAISE from Baker Mayfield on Rookie Emeka Egbuka @Buccaneers @bakermayfield @EgbukaEmeka
pic.twitter.com/5otX3vpmJj
— Kay Adams (@heykayadams) August 6, 2025
The Bucs added Egbuka one year after drafting Jalen McMillan in the third round and re-signing Godwin to a three-year contract.
That led to some speculation about Godwin’s recovery from a serious leg injury he suffered last season.
Then again, it might also be that the Bucs were just so high on Egbuka that they didn’t care about the positional logjam.
The Ohio State product is a seamless fit for this offense, and he’s used to sharing the field and touches with other stars.
He has essentially the same measurables as Godwin, and it looks like he’s already developed a strong chemistry with his quarterback.
The Buccaneers don’t get as much credit as they deserve, but they’ve remained atop the NFC South even after Tom Brady’s retirement.
With this collection of big-play threats, they should be the favorites to win the division for a fifth straight season.
NEXT: Baker Mayfield Sends Warning About Buccaneers Defense