Bucs Jalen McMillan Facing One Major Challenge

Last year, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hit a midseason wall after a hot start. The Bucs started 4-2 before losing four straight and five of six heading into their bye week. That spiral coincided with the team losing Chris Godwin and Mike Evans to injury. 

Godwin's situation proved more serious and long term, keeping him off the field for the remainder of the season. Evans would return but still missed significant time. 

However, the Bucs powered through and would hold onto the NFC South crown for a fourth season. That push down the stretch spoke to the team's resiliency but also required some unexpected heroes stepping up. 

Jalen McMillan found himself among that group, making an impact the Bucs did not expect in year one. His eight receiving touchdowns were the second most on the team and those came in some key moments for the team. 

He scored seven of those in his final five games, all of which came in must-win situations for the Bucs. Clearly, his progression showed he could contribute in this offense through the coming seasons. 

But Tampa Bay made some upgrades and while those are certainly an overall positive, they bring into question what his role will look like next season. Most notably, the Bucs drafted Emeka Egbuka in the first round, adding one of the most coveted receivers in the draft. 

Mike Evans and Chris Godwin will continue to command the large share of targets in the offense as well, so where does that leave McMillan?

He has exercised patience in waiting for then capitalizing on his opportunity. When it comes to the Bucs' future plans, McMillan factors into them. But the structure of the depth chart hints at him repeating that process in his second season. 

The good news? His talents are not unnoticed here and he has favor within the locker room, namely with quarterback Baker Mayfield. Some have floated the possibility of a trade, but all indications are that it would take a lot to pry him from Tampa Bay

So while the Bucs' young standout will have his turn, there is a payoff and a bigger role likely awaiting him on the other side.