Wednesday's practice was eventually moved inside due to lightning in the area, but the competition remained the same. During Day 11 of training camp practice for the Buccaneers, several players emerged from the pack. Third-year tight end Cade Otton became the bonafide star on offense and several defenders made an impression, including Tyrek Funderburk, an undrafted rookie who has been nicknamed a 'sleeper' of camp thus far. Here are several key notes from Wednesday's eventful practice:
Cade Otton Show
Wednesday at the AdventHealth Training Center became the Cade Otton show. He became Baker Mayfield's go-to target and the offensive catalyst. Otton moved the chains on two back-to-back catches down the boundary, one on a deep out and the next on a flat route. He picked up yards off a screen and connected with Mayfield in the end zone for a touchdown, crossing over the middle. No. 88 has been the model of consistency throughout training camp, showcasing his ability to find space against zone and how to gain leverage against man. Otton plays with outstanding body control and short-area burst. He is adept at boxing out defenders and will play a crucial role in Liam Coen's offense come fall. Whether being flexed out wide and using the boundary to his advantage or lining up inside and making the most of a free release, Otton has been a bright spot for the Buccaneers. As defenses allocate resources to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, favorable matchups arise for Otton.
"When you've got Mike and Chris and Trey [Palmer] and Jalen [McMillan] out there, the tight ends are going to be singled a lot and Cade's got to get open," said Head Coach Todd Bowles."
Tyrek Funderburk Interception
Undrafted rookie cornerback Tyrek Funderburk out of Appalachian State continues to shine during offseason workouts. On Wednesday, Funderburk snagged another interception. He diagnosed and reacted, jumping up to make a play on the ball. He has made the most of his opportunities during camp as he vies for a spot on the Bucs' final 53-man roster. Funderburk has continued to generate buzz and Todd Bowles named Funderburk as one of the players he was looking forward to watching in games. The 6-foot, 185-pound cornerback possesses a competitive disposition on the field and ball-hawk mentality. Funderburk has hip fluidity and the instincts/football IQ to jump routes – a prerequisite for Bowles' aggressive defense. He continues to raise his stock and will be one to watch in the preseason as the pressure escalates.
Pressure Incoming
Several defenders brought pressure on Wednesday for would-be sacks, including Lavonte David and Christian Izien. Izien, the incumbent nickel corner, has been battling with third-round rookie Tykee Smith and veteran acquisition Tavierre Thomas for the role. All three have been cross-training in the slot, as well as free and strong safety. On Wednesday, Izien flew off the edge and collapsed the pocket around Mayfield. Later in the morning, Lavonte David shot through the A-Gap like a missile. Both caused havoc and disrupted the rhythm of the offense. Bowles' defense is dictated by pressure and in the Florida humidity, both brought the heat. Entering Year 13th, David is still showcasing his range and drive on the gridiron.
