Tampa Bay has retooled in the offseason, as Buccaneers General Manager Jason Licht has added significant assets in free agency and in the draft. The retooled roster has the spotlight on the Bucs that need to produce in 2026. Let’s take a look at the Buccaneers under pressure: Eight players that need to shine.<\/p>\n
Mayfield<\/a> is the undeniable leader of this team, the heart and soul. Tampa struck it rich when they signed Mayfield in 2023, after Tom Brady retired. Mayfield flopped in Cleveland, and after he resurrected his career with the Panthers and Rams, he cemented his status as a franchise quarterback in Tampa. Expectations are now even higher, though, as many holes in the roster have seemingly been filled by Licht. Mayfield has a solid offensive line, a top-tier running back in Bucky Irving, and a solid group of receivers. A rebuilt defense will take the pressure off Mayfield. Now, he just needs to play like a top-ten quarterback, and the Buccaneers will return to the playoffs.<\/span><\/p>\n Buccaneers GM Jason Licht isn't worried about rushing an extension with QB Baker Mayfield:<\/p>\n "I foresee when it does happen that we're doing this at the dive bar" \ud83d\ude02@Buccaneers<\/a> | @bakermayfield<\/a> | @heykayadams<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/SEuqWB79Aq<\/a><\/p>\n — Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) May 7, 2026<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n