The Tampa Bay Buccaneers opened their 2024 preseason slate on Saturday night in Cincinnati with a last-minute 17-14 comeback victory. The player who scored the game-winning touchdown on a three-yard run, rookie running back Ramon Jefferson, is currently listed sixth on the Buccaneers' camp depth chart. He got a key block from undrafted rookie guard Xavier Delgado, who played 40 of the team's 75 offensive snaps in his NFL debut.
It was, in short, an evening dedicated to the second, third and even later columns on the Buccaneers' depth chart, as Head Coach Todd Bowles chose to sit all but four of the team's currently listed starters. Three of those four were the team's interior offensive linemen: guards Cody Mauch and Ben Bredeson and center Robert Hainsey. Hainsey only played 17 snaps, however, before giving away to rookie first-rounder Graham Barton, who absorbed 18 reps. Those two are in a camp battle for the starting job on the pivot, and it was a decent opening game for both.
"I'm still in the process of looking at that, but I saw some good things," said Bowles of his centers' performances. "There was a snap on the ground – I've got to finish looking at the tape – but from a run-game standpoint, I thought they did a decent job of getting up to the second level."
The ony listed starter to take the field on defense was linebacker K.J. Britt, who is angling for his first opening-day starting gig in his fourth season. However, Britt was also lifted after just 13 snaps, giving way to Vi Jones. Most of the team's core players – quarterback Kyle Trask, receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, linebacker Lavonte David, safety Antoine Winfield Jr., etc. – spent the night as cheerleaders.
The Bucs have two more preseason games to get snaps to their starters before the regular season, but those players may not have much work to do next Saturday in Jacksonville, either. Because the team will spend two days running joint practices with the Jaguars at their facility, in which all types of game situations and matchups can be heavily scripted, they may see the bulk of their important action during the middle of the week. That would leave the Bucs' lone preseason home game, against the Miami Dolphins on August 23, as the best opportunity to let Mayfield and company open it up.
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
"Depending on how much work we get in Jacksonville during the practice week, I'm leaning towards the third game because we'll have two weeks to get ready for the game," said Bowles. "We'll see how much practice the 'ones' get. They'll have the day off, so they'll get a lot of work that week. Depending on how much work they get, they'll probably sit this one. If they don't, then some of them will play a little more. I'm leaning towards the third game where everybody plays."
Some of the starters who were held out in Cincinnati wouldn't have been able to suit up even if Bowles had wanted to get them in the game. Most notably, injuries likely would have sidelined outside linebackers Yaya Diaby and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka. The added playing time for some younger players such as Jose Ramirez, Markees Watts and rookie second-rounder Chris Braswell actually came in handy as the Buccaneers try to sort through their depth at that uncertain position.
The Buccaneers did not record any sacks against the Bengals and had just one quarterback hit, but Ramirez, a 2023 sixth-round pick who spent his rookie season on the practice squad, did have several quick rushes around the tackles that resulted in Cincinnati drawing flags for holding.
"I thought Braswell did fine, physically. He didn't get a chance to rush the passer much with the fronts we had him in. He dropped once or twice. I thought Jose did a good job because he drew a couple holding penalties. He got off the ball well. Watts, he had a few chances. He got pushed by some, trying to move and trying to get up and under and they kind of pushed him down – but, he did better in the run game. All three of them had their positives and have some things to work on."
Other notable playtime totals from Saturday's game included rookie guard Elijah Klein getting 64 of the 75 offensive snaps and second-year safety Christian Izien drawing 36 of a possible 53 defensive snaps. A sixth-round pick out of UTEP, Klein may be more critical to the Bucs' interior-line depth plans after veteran guard Sua Opeta was lost for the season to a knee injury in the first week of camp. Izien served as the team's slot corner for his entire rookie season in 2023 but actually started Saturday's game at safety, with rookie third-rounder Tykee Smith in the slot.
