Each week during the regular season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' communications department publishes a "Game Release" to aid the media in coverage of their upcoming game. Within that release are a number of documents regarding the player roster, including a depth chart, which lists the pecking order at every position on offense, defense and special teams.
Each game week, we will be taking a closer look at that depth chart, pointing out any changes or relevant notes from the previous game. Let's start on offense. Rookies are marked with an asterisk. Players we will be discussing in depth are highlighted in bold text.
OFFENSE
- WR: Mike Evans, Trey Palmer
- WR: Sterling Shepard, Ryan Miller
- LT: Tristan Wirfs, Justin Skule
- LG: Ben Bredeson, Royce Newman
- C: Graham Barton *, Robert Hainsey
- RG: Cody Mauch, Elijah Klein *
- RT: Luke Goedeke
- WR: Jalen McMillan *, Rakim Jarrett
- TE: Cade Otton, Payne Durham, Ko Kieft, Devin Culp *
- QB: Baker Mayfield, Kyle Trask
- RB: Rachaad White, Bucky Irving*, Sean Tucker
(On the practice squad: WR Marquez Callaway, OL Luke Haggard, WR Dennis Houston, WR Tanner Knue, OL Lorenz Metz, T Raiqwon O'Neal, QB Michael Pratt, TE Tanner Taula, RB D.J. Williams)
Kyle Trask got his first two snaps of the season when Baker Mayfield had his leg stepped on after a sack and had to be examined in the sideline medical tent. Trask executed one handoff and threw a five-yard pass to Bucky Irving.
A week after being a bit limited in his return to the lineup following a three-game absence due to a hamstring injury, Mike Evans was the most active of the Buccaneers' receivers against Carolina. Evans played 67 of the 80 offensive snaps (84%) and led the team with eight catches for 118 yards and a touchdown. Rookie wideout Jalen McMillan started for the second week in a row and played a season-high 61 snaps, finishing with two catches for 25 yards.
Also for the second week in a row, the Bucs' offense started the game in "12" personnel, with tight end Payne Durham joining Cade Otton in the lineup. Like McMillan, Durham also played a season-high number of snaps with 31 as the Buccaneers leaned on two-TE packages to help a running game that gained 236 yards against the league's worst rush defense.
Tackle Tristan Wirfs returned to the lineup after missing one game with a knee injury, despite being a question mark right up until the afternoon of the game. Wirfs not only started but played every snap and was praised by Head Coach Todd Bowles on Monday for his level of play.
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
DEFENSE
- DL: Calijah Kancey, C.J. Brewer, Earnest Brown
- NT: Vita Vea, Greg Gaines
- DL: Logan Hall, William Gholston
- OLB: Yaya Diaby, Anthony Nelson
- ILB: K.J. Britt, Vi Jones
- ILB: Lavonte David, J.J. Russell
- OLB: Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, Chris Braswell *, Jose Ramirez
- CB: Jamel Dean, Josh Hayes, Tyrek Funderburk *
- CB: Zyon McCollum, Troy Hill
- S: Antoine Winfield Jr., Christian Izien, Tavierre Thomas
- S: Tykee Smith *, Mike Edwards
(On the practice squad: S Marcus Banks, CB Dallis Flowers, DL Mike Greene, LB Antonio Grier, OLB Daniel Grzesiak, S Rashad Wisdom)
With Joe Tryon-Shoyinka sidelined by an ankle injury, outside linebacker Anthony Nelson made his first start of the season and logged a season-high 55 defensive snaps. Nelson recorded three quarterback hits and authored the biggest play of the game – perhaps the most important defensive play of the Bucs' season so far – with a forced fumble against running back Chuba Hubbard in the overtime period.
Fellow outside linebacker Yaya Diaby recovered that loose ball on the last of his 65 defensive snaps, as he was only off the field for five plays. Diaby tied Nelson with three hits on quarterback Bryce Young. That also equaled the highest number of defensive snaps Diaby has taken in a game this season.
The Bucs have some changes on their defensive depth chart this week due to roster moves prompted by injuries. Jordan Whitehead was removed from the second safety spot after landing on injured reserve, bumping safety Tykee Smith up to the starting spot next to Antoine Winfield Jr. However, Smith has missed the last three games with a knee injury and it was actually Mike Edwards who started against Carolina in just his second game back with the team. Edwards played 30 snaps but then left the game with a hamstring injury. That made room for Tavierre Thomas to get his first extended playing time on defense this season. He took 29 defensive snaps after logging just two over the first 11 games. Thomas contributed three tackles.
Linebacker K.J. Britt also left the game due to an ankle injury after just 14 snaps. J.J. Russell came on to play a season-high 43 defensive snaps, delivering five tackles in the process.
SPECIALISTS
- P:
- PK: Chase McLaughlin
- KO:
- H:
- LS: Zach Triner
- PR: Trey Palmer, Jalen McMillan *
- KR: Bucky Irving*, Rakim Jarrett
- KR: Sean Tucker, Trey Palmer
(On the practice squad: P Jack Browning)
As of the time of the Bucs' Week 14 Game Release, there was no punter on the team's depth chart following the waiver of Trenton Gill on Monday. The Bucs do have rookie punter Jack Browning on the practice squad and could give him the job in Week 14 either through a promotion to the active roster or a game day elevation. That also means the spots for kickoff and holder are currently unoccupied.
Rakim Jarrett was added to the first kickoff return line behind Bucky Irving. Jarrett did in fact take over for Irving in that role in the second half of Sunday's game in Charlotte after Irving sustained a hip injury on the final return of the first half. Jarrett had two returns for 34 yards, his first such plays in the NFL.
Nelson, who played every special teams snap in Week 13, understandably saw his workload in that phase of the game lessened when he moved into a starting role on defense. He still played 21 of a possible 36 kick and coverage snaps. Defensive backs Josh Hayes and Tavierre Thomas led the way with 27 special teams snaps and Hayes had a tackle in kick coverage.
