What's New with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering a new era in 2023, after the retirement of legendary quarterback Tom Brady. The team has a lot of questions to answer, but also a lot of excitement to look forward to. Here are some of the latest news and rumors about the Bucs.
Buccaneers' 2023 Schedule Released
The NFL released the 2023 game schedule Thursday, and the Buccaneers will see some significant changes compared to recent years. The team will open the season on the road against the Minnesota Vikings, and will face four playoff teams from last season: the Green Bay Packers, the Los Angeles Rams, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the Dallas Cowboys. The Bucs will also have two primetime games: a Monday night showdown with the Eagles in Week 6, and a Thursday night clash with the Cowboys in Week 13. The Bucs will have their bye week in Week 10, and will close out the season at home against the Atlanta Falcons. Source
Buccaneers OC Reveals Why QB Situation Remains Unsettled
The biggest question mark for the Buccaneers in 2023 is who will be their starting quarterback. The team has three options: Baker Mayfield, who was acquired in a trade with the Cleveland Browns; Kyle Trask, who was drafted in the second round last year; and John Wolford, who was signed as a free agent after playing for the Los Angeles Rams. New offensive coordinator Dave Canales said that he is impressed by all three quarterbacks, and that he wants to create a competitive environment for them. He also dismissed any concerns about Mayfield's size, saying that he has proven himself as a leader and a winner in the NFL. Canales said that he will tailor his offense to suit the strengths of whoever wins the job. Source
Buccaneers Could Have Preseason Joint Practices With New York Jets
One of the ways that the Buccaneers could evaluate their quarterbacks and other players is by having joint practices with another team during the preseason. According to reports, the Bucs could potentially have joint practices with the New York Jets before their preseason game in Week 2. The Jets are coached by Robert Saleh, who was previously the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers. Saleh is familiar with Canales, who was his colleague in Seattle for four years. The Jets also have a young quarterback in Zach Wilson, who was drafted second overall in 2022. The joint practices could be beneficial for both teams to test their schemes and personnel against different opponents. Source
Conclusion
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are facing a lot of challenges and opportunities in 2023, as they try to move on from Tom Brady and find their new identity. The team has a tough schedule, a quarterback competition, and a new offensive coordinator to deal with. But they also have a talented roster, a Super Bowl-winning head coach, and a loyal fan base to support them. The Bucs are not ready to give up on their championship aspirations, and they will do everything they can to make this season a success.
Sources:
- BREAKING: Tampa Bay Buccaneers' 2023 Schedule Released
- Buccaneers OC dismisses Baker Mayfield size concerns
- Buccaneers Could Have Preseason Joint Practices With New York Jets