3 Surprising Buccaneers Roster Cuts to Watch Before Week 1

Key Players to Watch as the Buccaneers Finalize Their Roster

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers wrapped up their preseason schedule with a 23-19 loss to the Buffalo Bills. While they finished with a 2-1 record in exhibition games, the team is now focusing on finalizing their 53-man roster ahead of the regular season. With many starting positions already secured, the attention is turning to depth players and potential cuts.

Several key players are currently under scrutiny, including some veterans who may not make the final cut. The coaching staff and general manager Jason Licht will need to make tough decisions over the next few days to ensure the team is ready for their Week 1 matchup against the Falcons in Atlanta.

Sean Tucker’s Future in the Backfield

One of the most surprising names on the bubble is running back Sean Tucker. While he has shown flashes of talent in the past, including an NFC Player of the Week performance, his future with the team is uncertain. Bucky Irving and Rachaad White are expected to play major roles in 2025, and if White is unable to go in Week 1 due to a groin injury, Tucker might have a chance to prove himself.

However, young backs Josh Williams and Owen Wright have also made strong impressions during training camp and the preseason. If the Buccaneers decide to keep both of them, Tucker could be left out. Given the need for depth at running back across the league, it’s possible that Tucker could find a new home elsewhere. A trade could benefit both sides, especially if the team can move on from the fourth-year back.

Anthony Nelson’s Role on Defense

Anthony Nelson has been a dependable backup for the Buccaneers’ defense under head coach Todd Bowles. However, with only one year remaining on his contract, there are questions about whether he still brings enough value to the table. At 29 years old, his ceiling is well-known, and the team may look to younger players for more upside.

Tampa Bay has high expectations for Chris Braswell, a former second-round pick who is entering his sophomore season. The team’s starting edge rushers, Yaya Diaby and Haason Reddick, are locked in, and rookie David Walker is out for the season due to a torn ACL. If Nelson is not retained, the Buccaneers may look to add another young talent to bolster their pass rush.

Trey Palmer’s Struggles at Wide Receiver

Trey Palmer, selected in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, has yet to translate his physical abilities into consistent production. Despite opportunities last season, especially when top receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin were injured, Palmer failed to make an impact. This season, the receiving corps faces new challenges, with Godwin returning later in the season and Jalen McMillan sidelined due to a severe neck strain.

Evans remains the team’s top receiver, while first-round pick Emeka Egbuka is expected to take on a larger role. With the roster deadline approaching, it’s possible that Palmer could be released. Other wideouts like Ryan Miller and Sterling Shepard have made strong cases for their spots, and the team may choose to move on from Palmer.

Final Roster Decisions Loom

As the Buccaneers finalize their 53-man roster, several players will face difficult decisions. Whether it’s Tucker, Nelson, or Palmer, each has the potential to impact the team in different ways. The coaching staff and general manager will need to weigh experience, potential, and depth as they prepare for the upcoming season. With the regular season just around the corner, every decision matters.