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One Buccaneers sleeper to watch in each offensive position group
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- One Buccaneers sleeper to watch in each offensive position group
Training camp is where offensive depth becomes more than a list of names.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have established pieces across the offense, but every summer creates opportunities for under-the-radar players to force their way into the conversation. Some are trying to become trusted reserves. Others are fighting for special-teams roles, practice-squad consideration, or enough preseason momentum to make roster decisions more difficult.
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For Tampa Bay , the sleeper list on offense features several rookies with intriguing traits and a few players looking to turn limited expectations into real opportunity.
Here is one sleeper to watch in each offensive position group.
Quarterback: Jalon Daniels
Daniels enters camp as an intriguing rookie quarterback from Kansas. Listed at 6-foot-1 and 219 pounds, he is not expected to threaten Baker Mayfield 's role, but developmental quarterback reps matter throughout training camp and preseason.
For Daniels, the focus will be command. He needs to show he can handle the huddle, process quickly, protect the football, and operate the offense with rhythm when given opportunities. Young quarterbacks can help themselves by avoiding unnecessary mistakes and showing steady improvement from one practice to the next.
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His roster path may not be simple, but strong preseason work could make him a player worth developing.
Running back: Kadarius Calloway
Calloway gives the Buccaneers a rookie running back with size to evaluate. Listed at 6-foot and 213 pounds, the New Mexico State product will need to show he can do more than carry the football in preseason games.
Backup running backs must contribute on special teams, protect the quarterback, and handle receiving assignments. Calloway's clearest path is proving he can be trusted in those areas while also showing enough burst and physicality as a runner to remain in the conversation.
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If he flashes with the ball and holds up in protection, he could become one of the more interesting offensive long shots on the roster.
Wide receiver: Ted Hurst III
Hurst is the wide receiver sleeper to watch because his skill set gives Tampa Bay something valuable. The Buccaneers' official site described him as a serious threat after he combined for 127 catches, 1,965 yards, and 15 touchdowns over his final two seasons at Georgia State.
Hurst's path will depend on how quickly he proves his vertical ability translates against NFL defensive backs. Tampa Bay already has Emeka Egbuka , Chris Godwin Jr., Jalen McMillan , and Tez Johnson in the receiver room. Still, Hurst can help himself by showing he can stretch the field, win contested throws, and contribute on special teams.
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If he stacks explosive plays during camp, he could force the coaching staff to find a role for him.
Tight end: Bauer Sharp
Sharp is one of the more interesting offensive rookies because of his background and versatility. Tampa Bay's official site noted that he is a quarterback-turned-tight end who can line up as a traditional tight end, fullback or H-back.
That gives him a real sleeper case. Versatile tight ends can make rosters by helping in multiple packages, especially if they can block, find soft spots in zone coverage, and contribute on special teams. Sharp does not need to become a featured receiver immediately. He needs to prove he can handle assignments, play physically, and give the offense flexibility.
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His football background could help him process the game quickly.
Offensive line: Billy Schrauth
Schrauth is the offensive line sleeper because interior depth always matters. The Buccaneers added the former Notre Dame guard in the fifth round, and the team's official site noted that he played both guard spots while bringing physicality, football intelligence, and the ability to identify stunts and blitzes.
That gives Schrauth a clear path to making an impression. Tampa Bay needs young linemen who can develop into reliable depth, and training camp will show whether Schrauth can handle NFL power, communication, and pass-protection demands.
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If he proves he can play either guard spot, his value rises quickly.
The Buccaneers' offensive stars will command most of the attention entering camp, but the back end of the roster matters. Daniels, Calloway, Hurst, Sharp, and Schrauth each have a different path to relevance.
If one or two emerge, Tampa Bay could leave training camp with a deeper and more flexible offense than expected.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: One Buccaneers sleeper to watch in each offensive position group
