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)
For the first time in his three-year NFL career, tight end Cade Otton missed a game due to injury, which set up second-year man Payne Durham for the most active outing of his own young career. Durham stepped directly into Otton's usual role as the number-one tight end, playing 67 of a possible 72 snaps on offense and finishing with a career-high five catches. Durham's previous career high for snaps in a game was 31. The Bucs had been increasing their usage of "12" personnel, which includes two tight ends together on the field, in recent weeks but did little of that in Dallas. Ko Kieft only played 12 offensive snaps and rookie Devin Culp, active for just the second time this season, had three.
First-year wide receiver Ryan Miller, who drew a lot of snaps while Mike Evans was out for three games earlier in the season, got his largest chunk of playing time in over a month on Sunday night, logging 33 snaps, in part because Sterling Shepard left with a hamstring injury. Miller caught his second career touchdown pass in the fourth quarter to make it a two-point game. Rookie Jalen McMillan continued to get more and more exposure, in this case earning 60 out of the 72 offensive snaps, two more than Evans. McMillan caught an 11-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter, his fourth score in the last three games.
Rookie running back Bucky Irving got 51 snaps, five more than starter Rachaad White, and finished the game with 92 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown.
View the top images of Tampa Bay's Week 16 game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, December 22nd, 2024 at AT&T Stadium.
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Guard Ben Bredeson #68 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Tight End Ko Kieft #41 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 and Wide Receiver Rakim Jarrett #18 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Cornerback Jamel Dean #35 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker J.J. Russell #51 and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15, Defensive Lineman William Gholston #92, and Tight End Devin Culp #82 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 and Tight End Devin Culp #82 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Tackle Justin Skule #77 and Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Safety Kaevon Merriweather #26, Cornerback Jamel Dean #35, Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6, Running Back Sean Tucker #44, and Linebacker Vi Jones #53 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Guard Ben Bredeson #68 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6, Offensive Lineman Robert Hainsey #70, and Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers makes a field goal during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers catches a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29 and Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buccaneers Legend Tony Dungy before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Fans before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signs autographs before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signs autographs before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Cornerbacks Coach Kevin Ross of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Cornerback Jamel Dean #35 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13, Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50, Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Cornerback Jamel Dean #35 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 and Guard Ben Bredeson #68 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Defensive Lineman Calijah Kancey #94 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Defensive Lineman Calijah Kancey #94 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ARLINGTON, TX - December 22, 2024 - Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs lost the game, 26-24. 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, Antonio Grier
ILB: Lavonte David, J.J. Russell
OLB: Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, Chris Braswell *, Jose Ramirez
CB: Jamel Dean, Josh Hayes
CB: Zyon McCollum, Tyrek Funderburk *
S: Antoine Winfield Jr., Christian Izien, Tavierre Thomas
S: Tykee Smith *, Mike Edwards, Kaevon Merriweather
(On the practice squad: S Marcus Banks, CB Dallis Flowers, DL Mike Greene, OLB Daniel Grzesiak, LB Deion Jones, S Ryan Neal, S Rashad Wisdom)
Second-year defensive lineman Calijah Kancey played the highest percentage of defensive snaps in any game in his young career, only coming off the field for three of a possible 60 plays. He split the Bucs' only sack of the day with outside linebacker Yaya Diaby and now leads the team with 6.5 sacks on the season despite missing the first five games of the season due to a calf injury. Diaby led all of the Bucs' edge rushers with 55 snaps. Anthony Nelson drew the start opposite him again and was on the field for 34 defensive snaps.
J.J. Russell got most of the work as the second off-ball linebacker next to Lavonte David, logging 44 snaps, a season high, and contributing three tackles and a pass defensed. Kaevon Merriweather and Christian Izien started at the two safety spots, with rookie Tykee Smith in the nickel, though Merriweather missed some of the game due to injury and was replaced by Mike Edwards. Merriweather and Edwards each had 31 defensive snaps, while Izien only missed four of the 60 plays.
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)
Rookie Jack Browning handled the punting duties for the third straight game after being elevated from the practice squad again. He punted four times for 179 yards, with one touchback. However, placekicker Chase McLaughlin replaced him on kickoffs, and McLaughlin hit all five of his kicks into the end zone for touchbacks. McLaughlin also hit a 45-yard field goal and three extra points. If Browning is going to continue as the Bucs' punter for the next two weeks he will have to be signed to the active roster, as he is out of elevation options.
Wide receiver Rakim Jarrett continued to share the kickoff return duties with running back Sean Tucker, as he has replaced Bucky Irving in that role Jarrett ran two kicks out of the end zone for a total of 69 yards, including a season-best 38-yard return. Tucker also worked on coverage units and had one of the team's two special teams tackles in Dallas.
Despite his new starting role on defense, Nelson continued to put in a lot of work in the kick-and-coverage phase of the game, logging 22 of a possible 30 snaps. Linebacker Vi Jones and safety Tavierre Thomas led the way in that category, with 27 snaps each.
