Buccaneers Rookie Gets ‘A-Plus’ Grade and Solves Two Concerns

When the Buccaneers’ turn came up in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the consensus was they’d go for a defensive player, with linebacker Jihaad Campbell being the most commonly mocked pick.

But the Buccaneers draft big board differed from the consensus of most experts. The team had been eyeing one player in particular at No. 19. And when it came time to turn in the pick, General Manager Jason Licht didn’t hesitate.

“The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have selected Ohio State Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka with the 19th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.”

The Buccaneers snagged Egbuka to boost Baker Mayfield’s arsenal, potentially forming one of the league’s top receiver groups. But as ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler points out, that isn’t the only reason.

“The team’s eventual pick at No. 19, receiver Emeka Egbuka, satisfies two areas: He was considered an A-plus prospect, and he helps curb concerns whenever Mike Evans decides to retire.”

Have to agree with Fowler here. This pick is as much about the future as the present. The clock is ticking for Mike Evans, whose free agency looms after the 2025 season, leaving questions about how many more years he’ll suit up.

Baker Mayfield is the big beneficiary of the Egbuka pick. The Buccaneers’ offense is stacked with talent, featuring Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Jalen McMillan, Cade Otton, Bucky Irving, and Rachaad White.

Conclusion

With Egbuka joining the fold, the Buccaneers’ offense looks like one of the best in the league on paper. He provides a safety net for Mike Evans’ potential departure and gives Baker Mayfield another reliable target.