The NFL Season is nearly upon us. The season kicks off on Wednesday, September 9. Between now and then, we’ll be previewing all 32 NFL Teams along with playoff picks. One team will be previewed each day, beginning with the Super Bowl-winning Seahawks and ending with the New York Jets. Check back each day for the next installment!

The Buccaneers started strong in 2025. Baker Mayfield looked like an MVP candidate and the team looked like one of the best in the NFC. But things did not finish well. The Buccaneers hit the skids and by the end were fighting to remain in the playoff picture. The team finished 8-9, tied for first in the NFC South, but lost a tiebreaker to end up out of the playoffs. Now, they’re looking to rebound. Let’s dive in.

Off-Season Changes

The Buccaneers saw one of their franchise players depart this off-season as receiver Mike Evans signed with the San Francisco 49ers. The team also saw running back Rachaad White depart and sign with the Commanders. On defense, the team lost long-time cornerback Jamel Dean as well as defensive lineman Logan Hall.

In the backfield, the Buccaneers added Kenneth Gainwell, who was RB16 in 2025 with the Steelers. The team also added Jake Browning as a new backup quarterback. Defensively, the Buccaneers brought in A’Shawn Robinson from the Panthers and signed linebacker Alex Anzalone from the Lions. In the draft, the team snagged edge Ruben Bain, Jr., and linebacker Josiah Trotter.

Fantasy Impact

Despite injuries and a rough stretch, Mayfield was solid in 2025. He finished as QB12. He has low-end QB1 upside, but I like him as a QB2. In the backfield it’s about Bucky Irving and Gainwell. I like Irving as an RB2 and Gainwell as a flex option. They also have some good depth with Sean Tucker still on the roster.

In the passing game, as a rookie Emeka Egbuka was WR23. I think he’ll be the lead of this group and should be a WR2. Chris Godwin and Jalen McMillan are there, too. Both have flex appeal, while Ted Hurst makes for an interesting stash. I like Cade Otton at tight end, and he’s stepped up at times, but he’s a TE2.

Prediction

The Buccaneers still have a talented roster and have the ability to win the NFC South and make the playoffs. They’re probably a trendy front-runner. But, as we saw in 2025, things can go off the rails quickly. I think they win between eight and 10 games and remain in the mix for the division.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.