2023 Season-In-Review

Record: 9-8, Loss vs. Detroit Lions in NFC Divisional Round (31-23)

Baker Mayfield rejuvenated his career in 2023 leading to a $100 million contract extension this offseason. The Bucs began the season 3-4 before dropping four in a row and six of seven. At 4-7, Tampa Bay rattled off four wins in a row and won five out of six to end the year. The Bucs took advantage of a reeling Eagles’ team and dominated into the divisional round before being knocked out by the Lions.

2024 Tampa Bay Bucs Season Preview

Offense

Key Additions: OG Sua Opeta, C Ben Bredeson, C Graham Barton, WR Jalen McMillan, RB Bucky Irving

Key Losses: OT Greg Gaines, OG Matt Feiler

The Bucs made sure to lock up Mike Evans this offseason. After rumors that he was going to leave in free agency, the two sides were able to get a deal done. The next move was to sign Baker Mayfield to a large contract. Now, Tampa Bay believes in the players in the locker room and will enter the season with high hopes in a weak division.

Mayfield looked good for Tampa last season totaling 4,044 passing yards and 28 touchdowns as the team reached the divisional round. He will have the same duo on the outside with Evans and Chris Godwin. Tampa Bay added Jalen McMillan in the third round and he will be used right away as well.

The Bucs knew that they had to improve the offensive line this offseason. It began by drafting Graham Burton in the first round. The next move was made when Tristain Wirfs agreed to an extension. The Bucs were able to lock up one of the best left tackles in the league. The improved nature of the offensive line will also help Rachaad White this season.

There are some weapons on the offensive side of the ball in Tampa. If Mayfield continues to grow within the offense, the Bucs could be in for a division title.

Defense

Key Additions: OLB Randy Gregory, CB Bryce Hall, S Jordan Whitehead, CB Tavierre Thomas, DE DE Chris Braswell, S Tykee Smith

Key Losses: DE Shaq Barrett, LB Devin White, CB Carlton Davis, S Ryan Neal, DE William Gholston

The Bucs became know for their defense in recent years but that took a major step back in 2023. Tampa Bay was 23rd in the league in total defense last season and a lack of pass rush was a major reason why.

Yaya Diaby led the team with 7.5 sacks last season, which was a surprisingly low number for the team leader. Diaby has a high upside moving forward, along with Joe Tryon-Shoyinka. The former first-round selection did not live up to expectations last season but will work to get his sack number up from five.

In the secondary, the Bucs allowed plenty of big plays. It was a banged up group last season and it suffered losses as well, led by Carlton Davis. Jamel Dean will step into a bigger role and this could concern Bucs’ fans after his performance last season. Dean will be joined by Zyon McCollum, who also had a difficult season. Tampa Bay used a third-round pick on Tykee Smith.

Antoine Winfield and Jordan Whitehead bolster the secondary a bit from the safety positions. They make up one of the best duos in the league along the last line of defense.

Vita Vea and Lavonte David will provide much-needed experience on this defense. The Bucs won a Super Bowl on the back of their defense but that is not the case at the moment.

Schedule

Week 1: vs. Washington Commanders

Week 2: at Detroit Lions

Week 3: vs. Denver Broncos

Week 4: vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Week 5: at Atlanta Falcons

Week 6: at New Orleans Saints

Week 7: vs. Baltimore Ravens

Week 8: vs. Atlanta Falcons

Week 9: at Kansas City Chiefs

Week 10: vs. San Francisco 49ers

Week 11: BYE WEEK

Week 12: at New York Giants

Week 13: at Carolina Panthers

Week 14: vs. Las Vegas Raiders

Week 15: at Los Angeles Chargers

Week 16: at Dallas Cowboys

Week 17: vs. Carolina Panthers

Week 18: vs. New Orleans Saints

Record Prediction: 8-9