The Tampa Bay Buccaneers won the NFC South in the final weekend of the 2024 regular season, their fourth division title in the row. The Buccaneers controlled their own destiny on that last Sunday, as they only needed to beat the visiting New Orleans Saints to stay ahead of the Atlanta Falcons. As it turned out, they would win the division by two games because their own win over the Saints was coupled with a Falcons lost to Carolina on the same afternoon.
The Buccaneers would not have gone into that final weekend with their destiny in their own hands if not for one very timely play by sixth-year outside linebacker Anthony Nelson in Week 13 at Carolina. After the Bucs had tied the game at the end of regulation on Chase McLaughlin's 51-yard field goal, their opening drive in overtime ended in a missed 55-yard field goal. The home team took over close to midfield and got into field goal range moments later.
On first down from the Bucs' 34, running back Chuba Hubbard took a handoff and headed towards right guard, while Nelson engaged with right tackle Taylor Moton. As Hubbard ran past the line for a four-yard gain, Nelson disengaged with Moton and swiped at the running back with his right arm, ripping the ball loose and sending it bouncing towards the left sideline. Tampa Bay outside linebacker Yaya Diaby got to the ball first and the turnover led to a game-winning field goal minutes later.
This type of crunch-time heroics was nothing new to Nelson. In 2022, as the Bucs were in a tight stretch-run battle with New Orleans for the NFC South lead, he had key strip-sacks that led to victories over Arizona and Carolina in Weeks 16 and 17. Over his six seasons and two contracts with the Buccaneers, Nelson has commonly been lauded by the coaching staff as a "steady Eddie" who does all the little things right, but his career thus far has also had some very big moments.
Nelson's career will surely continue in 2025, but it remains to be seen if that will happen in Tampa. He is one of 22 players from Tampa Bay's season-ending 2024 roster who are due to become unrestricted free agents in March. Prior to the opening of the market we are taking a look at 10 of them – what they've accomplished, where they are in their careers, what the market and the draft look like at their positions, and so on.
Some of the players we'll examine between now and March 12 could get a new deal to stay in Tampa before that date. It's likely some of them will not be back, or will at least test the free agent waters. This is the full schedule of our 2025 Free Agent Focus rundown:
February 12: WR Chris Godwin
February 14: QB Kyle Trask
February 19: OLB Anthony Nelson
February 26: C Robert Hainsey
February 28: WR Sterling Shepard
March 3: OLB Shaquil Barrett
March 4: LB Lavonte David
March 5: G Ben Bredeson
March 6: OLB Joe Tryon-Shoyinka
March 7: LB Lavonte David
This list is subject to change based on potential roster moves in the coming weeks. Today we look at a successful Day Three draft pick who could be looking for his third contract with the Buccaneers.
View the top images of Tampa Bay's Week 13 game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, December 1st, 2024 at Bank of America Stadium.
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Offensive Coordinator Liam Coen of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Offensive Coordinator Liam Coen of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13, Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50, Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6, Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78, and Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 and Offensive Line Coach Kevin Carberry of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Inside Linebacker J.J. Russell #51 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Chris Braswell #43 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Defensive Lineman Calijah Kancey #94 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Defensive Lineman Calijah Kancey #94 and Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Fans during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Defensive Lineman Calijah Kancey #94 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ties the game with a field goal during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers recovers a fumble during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Jose Ramirez #33 and Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicks the game-winning field goal during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and General Manager Jason Licht after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31, Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, and Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 and Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tight End Ko Kieft #41, Inside Linebacker J.J. Russell #51, Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13, and Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Guard Ben Bredeson #68 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tight End Devin Culp #82, Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 and Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Defensive Lineman Logan Hall #90 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Long Snapper Evan Deckers #86 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Center Graham Barton #62 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Kyle Trask #2, Safety Christian Izien #29, Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31, Defensive Back Josh Hayes #32 and Inside Linebacker K.J. Britt #52 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Defensive Lineman William Gholston #92 and Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Long Snapper Evan Deckers #86 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29 and Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 and Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 ad Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - December 01, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and fans after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers. The Bucs won the game in overtime, 26-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Player: Anthony Nelson
Position: Outside Linebacker
Age at the Start of the 2024 Season: 28
Experience: Entering seventh NFL season
How Acquired: Selected in the fourth round (107th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft out of Iowa.
Previous Contract(s): After being drafted in 2019, Nelson signed the standard four-year contract that each player selected in Rounds Two through Seven gets. After completing that deal in 2022, Nelson re-signed with the Buccaneers in March of 2023, getting a new two-year deal that ran through the 2024 season and also includes three automatically-voiding years (2025-27) at the end to spread out the cap hit.
Rank in Pro Football Focus **Top 100 NFL Free Agents** for 2025: Not ranked.
2024 Performance: Nelson started the season in a reserve role as a key part of the team's edge rush rotation, but in the second half he replaced Joe Tryon-Shoyinka as the second starter opposite Diaby. Nelson initially moved into a starting role in Week 12 when Tryon-Shoyinka was out due to injury but then retained it when his fellow outside linebacker returned to the field.
Nelson played in all 18 games with seven starts, including the team's lone playoff contest, and was on the field for 51% of the defensive snaps. He finished the regular season with 36 tackles, 4.0 sacks, six tackles for loss, 13 quarterback hits, one pass defensed and, as noted above, one very big forced fumble. His 13 QB hits tied Vita Vea for third on the team, behind only Diaby (20) and Calijah Kancey (17).
According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Nelson improved his pressure rate significantly in 2024. After getting pressure on 9.2% of his pass-rush snaps in 2023, he upped that mark to 12.5% last season. He added five tackles in the postseason loss to Washington.
Career Accomplishments: Nelson was limited to nine games as a rookie in 2019 and didn't carve out a very big role on defense in 2020. However, over the last four seasons he has had steady production, recording between 3.0 and 5.5 sacks in each of those campaigns while missing only one contest. Overall, in 92 regular season games and 18 starts he has recorded 174 tackles, 18.5 sacks, 26 tackles for loss, 42 QB hits, five passes defensed, five forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.
Nelson recorded career highs of eight starts and 5.5 sacks in 2022 after his 5.0-sack breakout campaign in 2021. Three of his five forced fumbles were also accomplished in 2022. He has played between 358 and 633 defensive snaps in each of the last four seasons, including 573 in 2024.
Nelson has also been one of the Buccaneers' most active special teams players. Even while moving into a starting role in 2024, he was on the field for 80% of the team's special teams snaps. His snap percentage and total of 384 plays in that phase of the game were both second among all Buccaneers to Tavierre Thomas (81.2%, 388) and he contributed four kick-coverage tackles. In six seasons, Nelson has logged 1,509 snaps in the kick-and-return game.
Other Potential Free Agent Outside Linebackers/Edge Rushers: Khalil Mack (Chargers), Josh Sweat (Eagles), Haason Reddick (Jets), Malcolm Koonce (Raiders), Baron Browning (Cardinals), Dayo Odeyingbo (Colts), Chase Young (Saints), Azeez Ojulari (Giants), DeMarcus Lawrence (Cowboys), Dante Fowler (Commanders), Chauncey Golston (Cowboys), Matt Judon (Falcons), Dennis Gardick (Cardinals), Josh Uche (Chiefs), Derek Barnett (Texans)
Top Outside Linebacker/Edge Rusher Prospects in 2025 NFL Draft: Abdul Carter (Penn State), James Pearce Jr. (Tennessee), Mike Green (Marshall), Mykel Williams (Georgia), Shemar Stewart (Texas A&M), Nic Scourton (Texas A&M), Princely Umanmielen (Ole Miss), Jalon Walker (Georgia), Landon Jackson (Arkansas), Jack Sawyer (Ohio State), JT Tuimolaou (Ohio State), Donovan Ezeiruaku (Boston College), Jared Ivey (Ole Miss), Bradyn Swinson (LSU), Kyle Kennard (South Carolina)
