Buccaneers News
[the_ad id=”105842″]The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have finalized their 53-man roster for the 2025 season, and rookie wide receiver Tez Johnson has earned his place after an impressive preseason campaign. Selected in the seventh round of the draft, Johnson’s strong performances in training camp and exhibition games pushed him onto the active roster and into the conversation for early playing time.
Johnson’s roster spot came at the expense of Trey Palmer, who showed promise in his first two seasons with Tampa Bay but was unable to carve out a consistent role in 2024. Palmer has since joined the New Orleans Saints, clearing the way for Johnson to step in as the Buccaneers look to build depth at wide receiver.
The team’s passing attack is dealing with injuries heading into Week 1. Second-year wideout Jalen McMillan was placed on Injured Reserve with a neck issue, sidelining him for at least the first four games. Veteran Chris Godwin is also expected to miss the opening month of the season as he works back from an ankle injury. Those absences create opportunities for Johnson to make an immediate contribution.
Mike Evans remains the leader of the receiving corps and will continue to be quarterback Baker Mayfield’s most trusted target. Evans is joined by rookie first-round pick Emeka Egbuka, who is expected to step into a significant role immediately. While Evans and Egbuka will command most of the defensive attention, Johnson’s ability to work underneath and in the slot could give Mayfield another reliable outlet in the early part of the schedule.
During his time at Oregon, Johnson was known for his quickness, route running, and ability to separate in tight spaces. He produced 1,182 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in his final college season, traits that made him an appealing late-round addition for Tampa Bay. His skill set translates well to the slot, where the Buccaneers need additional production with Godwin sidelined.
The Buccaneers’ offense exceeded expectations in 2024 with Mayfield at the helm, leaning on a strong passing game to fuel their playoff run. To replicate that success in 2025, they will need their younger receivers to grow into larger roles. Johnson’s emergence could help balance the attack and prevent defenses from focusing solely on Evans and Egbuka.
Fantasy football managers should keep Johnson on their watch lists. With Godwin sidelined and McMillan out, Johnson could see meaningful snaps as early as Week 1. Even if his target share is modest, his role in an offense that values quick passing and spacing gives him a chance to deliver early results. If he establishes trust with Mayfield, he could remain part of the rotation even after the veterans return to full strength.
The Buccaneers open their season at home against the Carolina Panthers, where Johnson may get his first chance to show he belongs in the NFL spotlight.
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