Buccaneers’ 2024-2025 Preseason Highlights
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ 2024-2025 preseason was a mix of high-energy performances and strategic evaluations. This has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting regular season. With new faces and returning veterans, the Buccaneers focused on building cohesion and identifying key contributors across the roster. The preseason games provided a glimpse into the team's depth, with several standout performances that have fans eager for the regular season to begin.
One of the most notable highlights was the performance of wide receiver Chris Godwin, who has shown no signs of slowing down. Godwin, who is entering his seventh season with the Buccaneers, displayed his trademark route-running precision and sure-handedness, making several key receptions that kept drives alive. The best receiver duo was Mike Evans and Godwin, but Evans’ injury has these two fresh faces have something to prove. His chemistry with the quarterbacks, particularly during third-down situations, was a reassuring sight for the coaching staff. Godwin’s ability to stretch the field and make contested catches will be crucial as the Buccaneers aim to maintain a potent passing attack.
On the defensive side, the Buccaneers’ young pass rushers stepped up, showcasing their ability to pressure the quarterback. Rookie defensive end Jalen Carter made a strong impression with his quick first step and relentless motor, recording multiple sacks and hurries throughout the preseason. His performance has drawn comparisons to some of the league's elite edge rushers, and his continued development will be key for a Buccaneers defense that relies heavily on its front seven. This Philly defensive tackle is no stranger to recovering the ball and running 42 yards for a touchdown. The team’s secondary also showed improvement, with cornerback Carlton Davis making several impressive plays in coverage, demonstrating his growth as a leader in the backfield.
Special teams play, often overlooked, was another area where the Buccaneers excelled. Kicker Chase McLaughlin, who was signed in the offseason, proved to be a reliable option, converting all of his field goal attempts, including a couple from beyond 50 yards. This outdid his 43-yard field goal against the Lions. His consistency could be a game-changer in close contests, giving the Buccaneers an edge in tightly contested games. Additionally, the return game looked sharp, with rookie wide receiver Jamal Cooper breaking off a 75-yard return, showcasing the team’s potential for explosive plays on special teams. As they prepare to kick off the season going against the Commanders, they appear to be in solid form. Their key players are performing well and their chosen rookies also are showing promise. The lessons learned and momentum gained from these preseason games will be vital as the team looks to make a deep playoff run.
