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3 Bucs to watch on offense during the training camp in 2026
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- 3 Bucs to watch on offense during the training camp in 2026
The Bucs ' offense was among the best in the NFL in the first half of the season in 2025. They had a breakout rookie in Emeka Egbuka , a strong offensive line, an efficient run game, and an MVP candidate at quarterback. That all came crashing down rather quickly, as the end result was that they ended up losing the division and missing the playoffs.
Now, in 2026, the Bucs' offense is healed up and ready for a bounce back.
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A lot is going to be riding on the play of this offensive line again, as well as the skill players stepping up. This side of the ball should not be a problem for the Bucs, but that doesn't mean we will be looking at some more than others. Here are three players we will be looking at closely as time rolls around for camp to be in full swing.
Jalen McMillan , Wide Receiver
The Bucs almost didn't get to see Jalen McMillan in 2025 after he fractured three vertebrae and suffered herniated discs after a tough hit in the preseason. He would return in December and play in just four games before the team missed the playoffs, which delayed his effectiveness. Now, with a full offseason to heal and the departure of Mike Evans in free agency, he is poised for a major role increase. McMillan realistically could be the team's WR2 by season's end, working on the outside.
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He showed as a rookie that he has a strong connection with Baker Mayfield from both a work and trust standpoint. Seeing how that connection works early on in camp will be telling for how much of an impact he can make in 2026.
Graham Barton , Center
Graham Barton never had a chance to hone his craft at the center position as he showcased his versatility in 2025. He filled in at tackle for some weeks, while still working at center, and the constant flexing had to have had an impact on his consistency. The Bucs need to have a strong presence on the interior of the offensive line in 2026 as they look to establish the run with Bucky Irving and Kenneth Gainwell . While they have two reliable guards in Cody Mauch and Ben Bredeson , Barton will be the straw that stirs the drink of that interior line.
Kenneth Gainwell, Running Back
The arrival of Kenneth Gainwell is one of the more interesting additions for any team this offseason. He is coming off a season in which he racked up an impressive 1,023 yards of total offense between 114 carries and 73 catches. He is bringing that versatility to the Bucs now to complement the workhorse they hope they have in Bucky Irving. So while his skillset makes him interesting to watch, it is also worth noting that this is a pivotal year for Irving, and tracking carries will be worth doing.
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If Gainwell outperforms Irving, offensive coordinator Zac Robinson will have a tough task in breaking up the touches in this offense.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 3 Bucs to watch on offense during the training camp in 2026
