The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering another important season as they attempt to maintain their position as one of the NFC South’s most competitive teams. After successfully moving beyond the Tom Brady era without entering a major rebuild, the franchise now faces a different challenge: keeping its momentum alive. With Todd Bowles continuing as head coach and Baker Mayfield leading the offense, Tampa Bay hopes its recent success can continue. However, questions surrounding Mayfield’s contract situation and the departure of longtime star Mike Evans have created uncertainty heading into 2026.
Baker Mayfield turned down a 2-year, $100 million extension with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, saying he felt “disrespected”. Nick Wright, Chris Broussard, and Kevin Wildes ask if he should’ve signed this contract, if the San Francisco 49ers and Brock Purdy should be concerned with their injury struggles, and if the Jacksonville Jaguars deserve more respect this season.
Last Season Showed Promise But Ended With Disappointment
The Buccaneers once again found themselves competing in a closely contested NFC South race, but they ultimately missed out on the division title.
At their best, Tampa Bay looked like a team capable of making a serious playoff push. Mayfield played with confidence, attacked defenses aggressively, and delivered important plays when the team needed them most. The offense found rhythm, and the quarterback appeared comfortable in his role as the franchise leader.
However, the season changed dramatically after a strong start. Mayfield looked like an MVP candidate during the first half of the year as Tampa Bay opened with a 6-2 record. After the bye week, though, the team struggled badly, losing seven of its final nine games.
Injuries affected the roster throughout the season, but inconsistent performances also played a major role in preventing the Buccaneers from finishing stronger.
Offseason Changes Create New Challenges For Tampa Bay
The biggest concern surrounding the Buccaneers’ offseason has been the uncertainty involving Baker Mayfield and his contract talks.
The biggest issue in my opinion with this offseason is that Mayfield has kind of expressed frustration, or disappointment, with the franchise. They were apparently far apart on a contract, and that could make Mayfield a little less motivated for the team.
Meanwhile, Tampa Bay also lost one of the most important players in franchise history when Mike Evans moved on. Evans remained one of the league’s most reliable receivers and developed a strong connection with Mayfield during their time together.
They also lost a cornerback who was a solid contributor to the defense, Jamel Dean. However, the Buccaneers made moves to strengthen their defensive unit by adding players such as Alex Anzalone and A’Shawn Robinson.
Cade Otton’s return also gives Mayfield another familiar target heading into the new season.
Mike Evans Departure Leaves A Major Offensive Question
Replacing Mike Evans will be one of the biggest challenges facing Tampa Bay.
They also lost one of the best players in franchise history in Mike Evans as he went to San Francisco. They have plenty of receivers, but Evans was still dominant and had a good connection with Mayfield.
Although the Buccaneers still have several talented receivers, Evans provided more than statistics. His experience, consistency, and chemistry with Mayfield made him a valuable part of the offense.
The team will now need its remaining receiving options to step up and help maintain the production level Tampa Bay enjoyed in recent seasons.
Buccaneers Roster Still Provides Reasons For Optimism
Despite the offseason concerns, Tampa Bay still has a roster capable of competing.
The offense remains built around Mayfield, who has proven he can lead an effective passing attack. The receiving group has enough talent to create problems for opposing defenses, while the running game has continued improving and provides better balance.
That balance could become especially important because it prevents defenses from focusing entirely on stopping the passing game.
On defense, Todd Bowles’ unit remains aggressive and physical. The team’s interior defensive line continues to provide strength against the run, helping Tampa Bay maintain its identity.
However, depth in the secondary remains a potential concern. Against explosive passing attacks, defensive consistency could become a major factor, especially if injuries impact the roster.
The addition of Zac Robinson as the new offensive coordinator could also provide another positive change for Mayfield and the Buccaneers’ offense.
Buccaneers Betting Outlook Shows Concerns For 2026
While Tampa Bay has reasons for optimism, there are also concerns about whether the team can exceed expectations this season.
In case you forgot, last year the Buccaneers were luckier than good. I saw Mayfield make some spectacular plays and save the day for them in the majority of their wins. Looking at their schedule for this year, they have a tough time. Their win total is at 8.5, and I just don’t see them getting over the total. I think the Falcons will likely be better, and the Panthers have a bit of momentum. I’m not taking anything on them, but I would lean to the under 8.5 if I had to play anything. I think my favorite bet for them is that they will be 1-4 after five games. That pays out at +500.
Meanwhile, the Buccaneers will have to deal with improving competition within the NFC South. The Falcons are expected to become stronger, while the Panthers enter the season with growing confidence.
Buccaneers Face A Defining 2026 Season
The Buccaneers’ next chapter will depend on how well they handle these offseason changes.
Mayfield remains the centerpiece of the franchise, but the contract situation adds an extra layer of pressure. Losing Mike Evans creates a major adjustment, and the defense will need new contributors to fill important roles.
Still, Tampa Bay has stability at quarterback, an experienced coaching staff, and enough talent to remain competitive.
The 2026 season will determine whether the Buccaneers can continue their successful transition into a new era or whether the challenges of maintaining long-term success finally catch up with them.
