The Tampa Bay Buccaneers think they've built a secondary that could be one of the NFL's best in 2024, starting with the pairing of All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr. with his once-and-again running mate Jordan Whitehead at the back end. At the outside corner spots, Jamel Dean is a well-established cover corner with elite speed and Zyon McCollum, preparing for his first season as a Week One starter, has been impressive throughout training camp.
However, Jason Licht has said on multiple occasions that one thing the Buccaneers' 2020 Super Bowl season made very clear for him is how valuable it is to have reliable depth throughout the roster. And the Buccaneers' secondary has the potential to be very deep. One of the reasons is second-year safety Kaevon Merriweather, who started the Buccaneers' preseason opener in Cincinnati on Saturday and had a strong outing in the Bucs' 17-14 win.
Merriweather started because Head Coach Todd Bowles rested almost all of his starters and ended up playing 72% of the defensive snaps. The Bengals ran with Joe Burrow and most of their offensive starters for their first possession, and on the seventh play Burrow lofted a deep ball down the middle to star wideout Tee Higgins. Merriweather provided coverage over the top and got to Higgins in the end zone just as the pass was arriving, knocking it away. Three plays later, Merriweather stopped running back Chase Brown for a loss in the backfield to help set up a third-and-17 at the Bucs' 26. The Cincinnati drive was saved on the next play by a pass interference call on an incompletion, so the Bengals' first-team offense was able to get the ball into the end zone, but Merriweather made a pair of potentially drive-killing plays.
Merriweather made the Bucs' roster as an undrafted rookie out of Iowa in 2023. He played extensively on special teams but also logged two starts at safety and played a total of 159 defensive snaps. He said it can be tough for a first-year player to absorb and understand all of Bowles' play calls, but he has it down a lot better after a year in the system.
"Like I said, it makes myself a lot more comfortable being out there. From a knowledge standpoint – knowing what I have to accomplish and knowing what I have to do, knowing the checks and knowing the calls. It just allows me to play more freely, play a little bit more comfortable, and just play faster and play a little bit better."
View the top photos of Tampa Bay's Preseason Week 1 matchup vs. the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday, August 10th, 2024 in Paycor Stadium.
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Tight End Devin Culp #82 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Defensive Back Josh Hayes #32 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Cornerback Bryce Hall #34 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the team watches Team USA Basketball win the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Center Graham Barton #62 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Tight End David Wells #89 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker K.J. Britt #52 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Offensive Lineman Robert Hainsey #70 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Punter Jake Camarda #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback Kyle Trask #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback Kyle Trask #2, Defensive Lineman William Gholston #92, and Inside Linebacker K.J. Britt #52 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Cornerback Bryce Hall #34 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Fans look on during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Markees Watts #58 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 and Punter Jake Camarda #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Center Graham Barton #62 and Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate a touchdown during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a touchdown during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Rakim Jarrett #18 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Rakim Jarrett #18 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback Kyle Trask #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Long Snapper Evan Deckers #86 and Tight End Ko Kieft #41 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Jose Ramirez #33 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Cody Thompson #83 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Daniel Grzesiak #57 of The Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Tight End Ko Kieft #41 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback John Wolford #11 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback John Wolford #11 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Linebacker Antonio Grier Jr. #48 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback John Wolford #11 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers huddle during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Ramon Jefferson #45 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback John Wolford #11 and Running Back Ramon Jefferson #45 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate a touchdown during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Defensive Lineman C.J. Brewer #95 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the team watches Team USA Basketball win the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14, Safety Tykee Smith #23, Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13, Running Back Rachaad White #1 and Center Graham Barton #62 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the team watches Team USA Basketball win the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the team watches Team USA Basketball win the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Jay Person #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Jose Ramirez #33 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback Kyle Trask #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14, Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 and Offensive Coordinator Liam Coen of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Cornerback Jamel Dean #35 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signs autographs before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Linebacker Antonio Grier Jr. #48 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback Kyle Trask #2 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker J.J. Russell #51 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Guard Avery Jones #66, Center Graham Barton #62 and Guard Elijah Klein #79 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback John Wolford #11 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7, Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Cornerback Tavierre Thomas #37 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Offensive Lineman Robert Hainsey #70, Wide Receiver Cephus Johnson #28, Tight End Ko Kieft #41 and Tight End David Wells #89 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker J.J. Russell #51 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Guard Elijah Klein #79 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Tight End Sal Cannella #49 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker K.J. Britt #52 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback Kyle Trask #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Defensive Back Josh Hayes #32 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker J.J. Russell #51, Safety Kaevon Merriweather #26 and Defensive Lineman C.J. Brewer #95 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Linebacker Vi Jones #53 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Center Graham Barton #62 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Rakim Jarrett #18 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Guard Elijah Klein #79 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Cornerback Keenan Isaac #16 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Cornerback Keenan Isaac #16, Safety Christian Izien #29 and Inside Linebacker J.J. Russell #51 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Cornerback Tyrek Funderburk #24 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker J.J. Russell #51 and Safety Kaevon Merriweather #26 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Quarterback John Wolford #11 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Cody Thompson #83 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Linebacker Antonio Grier Jr. #48 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Linebacker Antonio Grier Jr. #48 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Wide Receiver Raleigh Webb #17, Quarterback John Wolford #11 and Running Back Ramon Jefferson #45 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Running Back Ramon Jefferson #45 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Merriweather is one of an assemblage of very intriguing safety depth pieces behind Winfield and Whitehead, a group that also includes second-year man Christian Izien and impressive rookie third-rounder Tykee Smith. Those two are also competing for the starting job in the slot, an assignment Izien handled capably last season. Tavierre Thomas, an offseason free agent addition who is nominally a cornerback, is learning both safety spots and has extensive NFL experience in the slot. Undrafted rookies Marcus Banks and Rashad Wisdom round out the position as it currently stands on the 91-man preseason roster.
"I think we're very talented," said Merriweather. "I think from top to bottom, you know, we have a lot of guys who contribute in a lot of different ways. I think we do have a really deep and talented group of guys even behind those starters."
Merriweather has good size and speed for the position and a solid build that promises hard hits on opposing ballcarriers. Widely expected to be a Day Three pick in the 2023 draft, he was a priority free agent target for the Buccaneers when he was not selected. The Bucs obviously hope to have Winfield and Whitehead on the field as much as possible, but it's a long season and depth is tested at almost every position at some point or another. Merriweather got a taste of that as a rookie but now feels even more prepared to step in if necessary.
"You just have to understand [that] you have a job to do," he said. "We all live for all the opportunities to kind of prove yourself, so whenever you get the opportunity to go out there and prove yourself, prove it to others, prove it to anybody who's ever doubted you, I think, you kind of have to appreciate it, and take a hold of the opportunity that you have in front of you. … You're either going to sink or you're going to swim, so I think guys who are able to grab a hold of that and appreciate the opportunity that you have in front of you – no matter the stakes, no matter if you make a good play or make a bad play, [if] you just keep your head afloat, and do what you what you need to do, I think you'll have a lot of success."
