HEAD COACH TODD BOWLES

(On if there's an update to the competition for the starting center job)

"Yes, [Graham] Barton will start at center."

(On what went into that decision)

"We knew he was tough. It's just how fast he picked it up and the experience he's been getting and the way he's been finishing plays. His pass protection has picked up a lot."

(On his outlook for the team's defense this year)

"I'd like to say we've gotten faster. [We haven't] been out there with 11 [starters] at the same time with Yaya [Diaby] being down and Jordan [Whitehead] being down. We've got some good depth coming. I want to say they got smarter, but we'll see when the season starts. They're more aware of situational football – at least the awareness has gotten better and they're talking to each other more."

(On what he's looking for from the starters against Miami)

"It's not a matter of having success, it's a matter of playing in a game before we play a real game. The continuity on both sides of the ball, the communication needs to be there, the substitution patterns – everything like that, I'm really looking for – lack of penalties, hopefully, and those things we're kind of looking for going into the season."

(On how much the starters will play against Miami)

"I'm not sure yet."

(On WR Sterling Shepard returning to practice today)

"It was good to see him healthy. You don't want to see anybody hurt. He was moving around well."

(On which undrafted players he's looking at most closely against Miami on Friday)

"There [are] quite a few of them. There [are] quite a few of them. Not just to make the team, but for the practice squad. It's important that those guys have a good showing, whether it's offense, defense, or special teams. We still need some guys and there's a few guys that could make this team."

(On CB Bryce Hall's interception that was negated by penalty)

"Yeah, he held him. It was a penalty right off the top. He didn't have to – the technique was bad. He's a very intelligent player. He plays very physical at the line of scrimmage. He picked up the scheme very well. He understands where everybody is and he comes out and practices hard every day."

(On if he wants to see more from WR Jalen McMillan)

"No, I've seen everything I need to see out of him. He's exactly what we thought he was when we drafted him. It's not about making plays in preseason, it's about getting aligned right, blocking the right guy, understanding what coverages they're giving you and running the right routes and being where you're supposed to be."

(On what he likes about Tampa Bay's rushing attack)

"It's been positive. The [running] backs have been hitting the hole. They've been one-cut and getting downhill. They've been doing a good job of finding the creases, and the line has been doing a good job so far. But, again, preseason, you want to see that and you want to see continuity."

(On if OLB Jose Ramirez will play with the starters on Friday against Miami)

"No…Jose has been doing a great job. The first team isn't going to play the entire game, so when they come out, there will be guys that will come in that we really want to see and we want to see for an extended period of time and do the little things right. He's one of them."

(On where the most difficult cut-down decisions will be)

"I think outside [linebackers], safeties, and corners are going to be tough. Any time you have those kinds of guys and all of them can do a lot of things – that's going to be tough. The depth at defensive line is going to be tough. The last guy or two on the offensive line…Between how many tight ends and how many [running] backs we keep, and that last [wide] receiver spot."

(On DB Christian Izien and DL Greg Gaines sitting out of practice)

"They're just sore, they got nicked up a little bit. We'll wait for them to heal."

(On the newcomers on the defensive line that have stood out to him)

"'Earn' (Earnest Brown IV) has shown something and [C.J.] Brewer has shown something this year. Those are two guys we'll be looking at this weekend to really see what we can have and what kind of depth we have. It changes the positions of who plays three[-technique], who plays four[-technique], who plays nose…Those two guys will really be important this weekend."

(On the tight end position and if he might look at free agents)

"You're always looking. I think those young guys have come a long way. I think Cade [Otton] is solid, I think Payne [Durham] has gotten leaps and bounds better than last year, Ko [Kieft] is a solid blocker, [Devin] Culp is coming along, [David] Wells has been tougher in the run game than he has been in the past. All of those guys have really shown something. We need to look at that last game, but I think we'll be fine with what we have. If something comes available at any position, we're always looking."

(On going up against the Miami Dolphins in a joint practice and in the game on Friday)

"It's definitely a different type of team. It's good to see different concepts and different schemes to get you ready for the season. We saw one last week with Jacksonville, we'll see another one tomorrow. They've got a lot of speed. They do a lot of things. They've got speed at running back, speed at tight end, speed at [wide] receiver. They're very tough defensively. It's a good test for us. It's good to practice against them going into the season."

QUARTERBACK BAKER MAYFIELD

(On how ready he is to get some reps in a preseason game this Friday)

"I'm excited, especially since we get to go up against them tomorrow [when] Miami comes into town, so we'll get a good practice against them. You guys know – [in] preseason, you don't exactly show all of your stuff. Being able to compete against another team with our group is always a great opportunity for us. Then, just to get in the mindset of playing Friday night and mentally preparing for it – I'm not going to play much, but just to get ready for it… football is finally starting to almost be here. It's always a good opportunity to go out and play against somebody else."

(On what he hopes to get out of his reps with the first unit on Friday night)

"Communication – I think procedurally-wise, that's really what you're looking for in preseason games. But [also], for us to be extremely sharp when it comes to the plays we're going to run. Obviously, since we're not all playing that long, to be really dialed in to the first few third-down calls, redzone calls and critical situations that we might have – [to] be really keyed into that, communicate well and execute. No dumb mistakes. Play good offensive football and go from there."

(On his assessment of the team throughout the offseason and training camp)

"I think we've come a long way. Obviously, we were very excited from the very beginning [with] the pieces we had, but I think it's starting to come together scheme-wise and player-wise understanding what we've got to get done. I'm excited about where we're at, but we still haven't played a real game yet, so we'll see once we get out there against Washington. Right now, it's [about] continuing to improve and get ready for Week 1."

(On how he is continuing to leave a mark on the team now that he is ingrained as the team's franchise quarterback)

"Continue to be the same guy each and every day for these guys [and] everybody in the building. Continue to lead how to know that I can, the best way that I can. Obviously, I've had experience with Liam [Coen] before and this system, and that's the offseason [purpose] – continue to coach guys and learn as we go through this process. For me, yeah, it's comfortable knowing that I'm here for a longer time period, but don't be satisfied with that. We still think about how far we got last year and where we could've been and just the ups and downs. Every season is different but you always kind of think back to where you were at at this point last year and I think we have a better identity. So now, it's really about attacking it and going to get what we're working for. I feel good about where we're at."

(On how long it took the offense to find its identity last season)

"A long time. Longer than we're probably proud of, but it was late in the year. We started to do the little things right and that's why we're harping on everybody doing their job and being extremely focused on the details even more so this year. That's why I think we've improved as the offseason and training camp goes on. That's why I feel like we can say we have an identity. It's different when you go out there and run plays and you see what you're really good at against other defenses, but we feel like we know who we are at this point."

(On what specifically about the run game has impressed him the most this season)

"When you have the system that we do, and as many formations and motions, it gets the defenses eyes sometimes in the wrong places – that's what you're trying to do. The movement off the ball by the guys up front – I think their tracks are better, I just think they're playing better. Then our guys in the backfield, obviously it's still a young group that we have, but I think they're just running it better. I think they're seeing it. I think they're understanding what we're trying to get done and they're not guessing where the hole is going to be. They're trusting the guys up front and hitting it quickly."

(On Graham Barton being named the starting center by Head Coach Todd Bowles)

"I mean center is one of the hardest positions to play in sports and for a rookie to be able to come in – and yeah, he's still learning – but for him to be able to come in and communicate well and to learn as quickly as he has, I think has been the impressive thing, especially since he hadn't played center in quite a few years. So, for him to make that switch and communicate the way he has been able to just operationally, I think it has been extremely impressive. Then obviously he's a first-round talent for a reason [with] the physical traits you see – he's extremely explosive, he's able to move the line of scrimmage. He's going to continue to improve with each rep and that's what we're excited about."

(On Baker and Emily Mayfield's second annual 'Be the Ball' event raising money for his foundation)

"I've mentioned to you guys a bunch just about having a platform and being able to give back is truly a blessing. We're doing our 'Be the Ball' event again – the Baker & Emily Mayfield Foundation – and we joined up with the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County again. We did that last year but decided to really try and dig our feet in even deeper and make a bigger difference. We're looking for a better turnout, obviously last year we had to pivot a little bit with the weather, but everybody handled it the right way. It's a fun event. One of those where you get to go swing a golf club, you don't have to be great at – just have fun and then do the auction event after. 3-5 [p.m. ET] is the golf and then 5-7 is the auction event. It's so much fun to be able to have guys come out. You don't have to dress up in a suit and tie – you just get to come casually in Florida gear and just have fun with it. To be able to give back and make a difference… and I mentioned to you guys, I was just learning about Tampa and just learning the area in general last year, just about the public school systems and how many people are truly in need that aren't necessarily under the poverty line [but] are right there at it that don't get the [resources]. So, this is a great event for us to be able to help out those people that [don't] necessarily get the [resources provided] from being [under] the poverty line."

(On how being a parent now has changed his perspective or interest in the school systems for young children)

"Absolutely, and that's what our whole foundation is about – trying to level the playing field. As we've been learning parenthood as we're going – we're just learning about how important it is at the early stages to continue to develop their brains and give them every opportunity to advance as quickly as possible. [We're] trying to do that. Obviously, we've realized how important it is now with having our own, but we're really diving into it and trying to make a bigger difference. It's extremely important and it's a fun event to be able to help out."

(On what kind of input he expects to have on the wide receivers who make the 53-man roster)

"I think those guys have put everything on tape – their tape is kind of their résumé when it comes to roster cuts and knowing what guys are capable of. That's not in my wheelhouse. Whoever is out there, I expect us to be pretty damn good and be on the same page. I'll let them make those decisions."

(On the rest of the NFC South division)

"This division, obviously it's going to continue to improve. Everybody wants to hate on the NFC South but it's a competitive division. Obviously, Atlanta has made some big splashes free agency-wise, and everybody is excited about it, but everybody was excited about the Saints doing the same thing last year, as well. For us – Todd [Bowles] mentions it almost every day – compete against yourself, try to get better each day, take care of the small things one step at a time and see where you're at in the end. Obviously, you guys saw the video of his opening team meeting about what our goal really is. It's not just about the division, it's about the big thing at the end. But you've got to start there and build up from there. Obviously, our schedule is what it is, but our division is improving so we've got to be prepared week-in and week-out, and that's just the nature of this league anyway. I'm excited about the improved competition that we have."

(On what he thinks the strength of the offense is)

"Versatility. I think with us improving the running game and bringing the pieces back that we have at receiver, and then adding a few pieces, as well, just in the skill group department… I think versatility is going to be our biggest weapon. Lining up and having teams decide how they want to defend us. Our guys have to be able to react and adapt to that. We're teaching the game right now and I think our guys are going to be able to handle that."

(On what Offensive Coordinator Liam Coen has helped him with)

"Never feeling handcuffed at the line of scrimmage. He has given me all of the answers to possibly have – [it's] getting up there and making the right checks. To be able to process that information really quickly is what he harps on in the QB room, of getting us into a good position, 'If it doesn't look right, get out of it. You have the power to do so. I'm teaching you guys that. Go out and do it and put us in a good position to have success.' Not feeling handcuffed at the line of scrimmage is always a good feeling, but you've got to know where you're going to go with it. So, the preparation is where he is really going to have us ready and we're all going to be on the same page when it comes to the whole offense. He wants us to take control of it. Communicate with those guys about, 'When I'm seeing a certain look, this is what I'm going to get to,' so guys can play fast and free."

(On where the identity of the offense comes from)

"I think the physical aspect is where we really improved last year later in the year. I think our guys understand that that's what we have to play with to be successful. When it comes to the running game, we have to [be physical]. Then our guys outside are going to play physical, as well. I'm going to keep going back to the run game, everybody is involved in it – the motion, the blocking down field, the differences in a 6-yard gain and a 20-yard gain. We're really harping on those things to bring this whole thing together. We should be extremely explosive, but physical at the same time."

(On what going against a player like Miami Dolphins CB Jalen Ramsey brings out of him)

"A lot of trash talking. I love Jalen. Just with the little stint I had out in LA – unbelievable athlete, truly one-of-a-kind breed from the size he has, the athleticism he has and the recognition of schemes and plays that he is able to react to. He is always a good test to go against so I'm excited to talk a little trash with him and have fun. Like I said, it's always good to compete against somebody else, especially when you have a guy like that on the other side."

TACKLE LUKE GOEDEKE

(On how he sees this offensive line come together and what he can improve on most)

"I see this line really jelling and starting to come together already – I think this is practice 17 or so. Just our run game is really jelling really nicely and we're really kicking off some nice runs in practice and even in the games you guys have seen and stuff like that. I mean, as far as improvement, I think all aspects of the game… I mean, run blocking and pass blocking, we can all definitely improve on as a unit. I think run blocking in particular is really what we're trying to pride ourselves on and really, like I said, it shows during the first two preseason games – just our running attack so far."

(On C Graham Barton earning a starting spot)

"Graham is a very smart player. [He's] a very athletic player as well. [He] takes pride in his work – comes to work every day, does all the right things, even as a rookie. I mean, that's few and far between. Being drafted as a first-round pick, obviously, there's an expectation and he's definitely met that expectation and he's done a really nice job for us so far. [I] can't wait to see him continue to grow."

(On G Elijah Klein and his performance in the preseason at multiple positions)

"He's done a heck of a job so far during camp at that guard position. We were running a little thin at tackle for the Jacksonville game, so he had to kick out there within less than a 24-hour notice, and I would say he did a great job. I mean, playing in space against the most elite in the NFL and everything, that's no easy task and I thought he handled himself very nicely. Then, to kick back down into guard – he did a great job there as well. Pass protection – he did great as at tackle as well as run blocking. Me and Tristan [Wirfs] just try to give him tips and pointers and everything and he really took what we had to say to heart and really did a phenomenal job."

(On QB Baker Mayfield as a leader in comparison from last season)

"I wouldn't say he changed much. I mean, he's a true leader at heart. He's a baller at the end of the day. He comes in [and] competes every day. It's almost like he comes in [and] his job is on the line even though obviously it isn't, but he's always trying to get better, day in and day out, and I think that continuity [that] we've gotten with him all off season is and everything, will only help in the long run. Whether it's with his cadence, his drops, all that – it will only help us as a whole as an offense. He's been dicing defenses up since the start of camp so I'm looking forward to the season."

(On what the starters want to see as a group when they play the Dolphins on Friday)

"[We'd] like to see the run game get going really [well] – the pass game as well. We'd love to see a touchdown on our first offensive possession for sure. I think that's a fair goal for us, just with the caliber of players we have and the offense that we have and everything, I feel like that's really fair."

WIDE RECEIVER CODY THOMPSON

(On the opportunity to make Tampa Bay's roster)

"Going into my sixth year now, I know opportunities come and go pretty quickly, so you always [have] to be prepared for when they're going to come. I like to always be prepared, do my due diligence, and just put my best foot forward day in and day out, whether it's practice or preseason games, and just make the most of every opportunity. Not many guys play a long time in this league, so I'm going to put my best foot forward and give everything I [have]."

(On adjusting to new special teams rules)

"Yeah, especially the kick-off, kick-return thing. I think my first rep out there in practice, as soon as he kicked the ball, I left, and I was like, oh, can't do that anymore. So it's like the muscle memory, but I'm getting it back. Special teams are how I made a name for myself originally in college, and then [I] worked into more of an offensive role, [so] hopefully, that transpires into the league. But that's a very important phase in the game [that] changes games, and [I am] willing to help and contribute any way I can on this team."

(On how difficult it is to make an NFL roster)

"Yeah, there's a ton of talented guys, and I think Chris [Godwin] said it yesterday: there's ten plus guys in our room alone that could play in this league. If it's not here, it's somewhere else. I mean, my first team, I didn't end up making it, and I ended up going out to Seattle for the next four and a half years or so. I think the thing is just putting your best foot forward. There are 31 other teams watching, [and] whether it's here or not here, it doesn't mean it's your last stop. You just [have] to keep going, and like I said, make the most of every opportunity because you never know who's watching."

(On whether entering cut week makes him nervous)

"No, [I] treat it like any other week. I don't control that, and I don't make those decisions. I can only control what I do and my approach to it, and I think it's been working out pretty well for me. I just [stick to] my routine, progressing and playing to the best of my abilities and playing every game like it could be your last because you never know when it can be. So, just leaving it all out on the field."

(On working with WR Mike Evans)

"It's incredible. I've watched Mike from afar for a long time, since I was even in high school, and he was doing these things. For him to be a little bit older, I won't call him old yet, but it's incredible. He's a great guy, on and off the field. [He's a] very smart player, willing to help out the young guys and anybody who [has] questions. He's seen everything and [has] played this game at an extremely high level for a long time now. It's nice to have somebody like him in the room that you can bounce ideas off of and understand how they see defenses and how they see certain concepts, [and] he's been a tremendous help to me over these last couple of weeks."

(On working with QB Baker Mayfield)

"I've watched him from afar for a long time. I grew up west of Cleveland a little bit, so I was a Browns fan. I've always loved Baker, [and] I think he's a true competitor. I love his energy, I love his emotion, his kind of [passion], his drive for the game, and [his] want to be the best that he can. He's an ultimate competitor [who] goes out there, makes every throw, [he's] great in the scramble, great in the pocket, and I'm excited to see what he can do this year."

-BUCCANEERS-