The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are facing a pivotal offseason, with some tough decisions looming due to their current salary cap structure. General Manager Jason Licht and Head Coach Todd Bowles have been candid about the challenges ahead, especially during their recent media sessions at the NFL Scouting Combine.
After a middling 8-9 season in 2025, the Bucs are expected to make significant moves. The focus is on key players like wide receiver Mike Evans and linebacker Lavonte David, but other contributors might also be on the chopping block as the team balances immediate needs with future plans.
Licht emphasized the importance of maintaining flexibility, hinting that some difficult choices are unavoidable. The Bucs have six players with cap values exceeding $20 million, and re-signing Evans would increase that number. Compared to other successful teams, like the Super Bowl champion Seahawks, who have only two players above that threshold, Tampa Bay's financial commitments are hefty.
This situation places players like defensive tackle Vita Vea, wide receiver Chris Godwin Jr., and safety Antoine Winfield Jr. in uncertain positions. Vea will be a free agent next year, and Godwin's contract structure allows for potential moves soon. Winfield's recent performance hasn't matched his 2023 form, making his future with the team questionable.
Licht is also considering looming extensions for quarterback Baker Mayfield, linebacker Yaya Diaby, and guard Cody Mauch, adding complexity to the decision-making process. As Licht noted, each player’s situation is unique, and decisions must be made with a long-term perspective.
Despite the challenges, Licht expressed a commitment to Vea, calling him a crucial part of the defense. However, the futures of Godwin and Winfield remain less certain, with potential trades on the horizon.
One intriguing possibility is acquiring star pass rusher Maxx Crosby from the Raiders. Such a move would address a critical need and could be facilitated by trading Godwin or Winfield, making it more feasible from a cap perspective.
Crosby would be a major acquisition, and Licht seems more open than ever to making a blockbuster trade, provided it aligns with the team's goals and financial constraints. He emphasized the importance of evaluating the player's age, injury history, and overall fit within the team’s framework.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on the Bucs' decision-making. With the possibility of significant roster changes, Tampa Bay's core feels more negotiable than it has in years. Whether it's through trades or strategic re-signings, the Bucs are poised for a transformative period.