Rakim Jarrett signed with the Steelers’ practice squad, adding speed and depth to a wide receiver group that already features Johnson and Pickens. Lance McCutcheon was released from the Steelers’ practice squad in a corresponding move, reshaping the team’s depth chart as it builds toward 2025.

Jarrett, undrafted in 2023, ran 4.44 in the 40 and logged 184 yards on 13 receptions across 20 games with Tampa Bay. Chad Reuter’s note that Jarrett was the top WR not selected in 2023 underscores the upside Pittsburgh is betting on to unlock a potential late-blooming role and value on special teams.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are gearing up for the 2025 training camp with a focus on unheralded players who may significantly impact their roster. Prospects like Sean Tucker, an undrafted free agent running back, is anticipated to shine under the new offensive scheme, potentially providing valuable depth behind established starters Rachaad White and Bucky Irving.

Additionally, Rakim Jarrett's impressive special teams play could earn him more opportunities in a wide receiver group looking for depth beyond stars Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Meanwhile, rookie Jake Majors is aiming to secure a backup center position with his solid technical skills, and Tez Johnson’s agility could make him a vital asset in the slot. Finally, tight end Devin Culp, a seventh-round pick, is poised to create mismatches, possibly solidifying his role in two-tight-end sets if he performs well in camp.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are currently striving for a playoff spot as the NFL season approaches its conclusion. While they do not have complete control over their fate—relying on losses from teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Washington Commanders—the Buccaneers must secure victories against the Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints. A critical area for improvement highlighted by ESPN analyst Aaron Schatz is their performance against man coverage defenses, particularly following Chris Godwin's injury in Week 7.

Schatz's analysis reveals that quarterback Baker Mayfield has struggled significantly against man coverage, ranking poorly in DVOA since the injury. While Mike Evans has excelled in this area, the other receivers, including Sterling Shepard and Jalen McMillan, have not performed well, with negative DVOA ratings. This weakness will be tested against their upcoming opponents, as both the Saints and Panthers employ man coverage strategies effectively, which could further expose the Buccaneers' vulnerabilities.

The situation is exacerbated by Shepard's absence in the upcoming game against the Panthers, forcing Ryan Miller into the lineup and reducing the team's receiving depth. Offensive coordinator Liam Coen acknowledges the need for improvement among the receiving corps, emphasizing that players like Miller, Rakim Jarrett, and Trey Palmer must step up to support Evans. Coen points out that while there have been positive developments, missed opportunities last week highlight the need for better execution moving forward.

As the Buccaneers prepare for their crucial matchup against the Panthers at 1 p.m. on Sunday, the focus will be on enhancing their offensive capabilities to ensure a successful playoff push.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced a crucial loss against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday Night Football, falling 26-24 and losing their lead in the NFC South.

Despite a strong offensive showing with Baker Mayfield passing for over 300 yards, the Bucs struggled early and were hindered by penalties and turnovers. Now, they need to win their remaining games while hoping the Atlanta Falcons falter to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Player performance grades highlighted WR Trey Palmer as the standout, while TE Payne Durham received the lowest grade.

DeAndre Hopkins showcased his talent with the Kansas City Chiefs, recording two touchdowns in a standout performance, marking the 14th time in his career achieving multiple receiving touchdowns.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced challenges with injuries among their top wide receivers, relying on undrafted players to step up. With Chris Godwin out for the season and Mike Evans sidelined, the team had to adjust its receiving corps significantly.

Despite the injuries, the Buccaneers managed to rotate their wide receivers effectively, with Rakim Jarrett taking on a prominent role. Meanwhile, Patrick Mahomes returned from an ankle injury, and the Chiefs are strategizing around Hopkins' strengths as they await the return of JuJu Smith-Schuster.