Tampa Bay Buccaneers Top Breakout Candidate in 2026
Summary
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will start the 2026 NFL season without longtime wide receiver Mike Evans, who signed with the San Francisco 49ers. Second-year receiver Emeka Egbuka is expected to take over as the team’s leading receiver and offensive focal point.Key Facts
- Mike Evans played 12 seasons with the Buccaneers and set a record with 11 straight seasons of over 1,000 receiving yards.
- Evans earned six Pro Bowl selections and won a Super Bowl with Tampa Bay.
- Evans signed with the San Francisco 49ers in the 2025 offseason.
- Emeka Egbuka was the 19th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft from Ohio State.
- In his rookie season, Egbuka scored a game-winning touchdown in his first start and earned NFC Offensive Rookie of the Month honors in September.
- Egbuka finished his first season with 938 yards, six touchdowns, and 63 catches but slowed down after teammates returned from injury.
- The Buccaneers’ offensive coordinator compared Egbuka’s style to star receiver Cooper Kupp.
- The team plans to give Egbuka a clear role, supported by other receivers like Chris Godwin and Jalen McMillan.
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