Baker Mayfield has solidified his role as the quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, showcasing significant improvement over the past two seasons. As he enters the 2025 season, the team is not merely looking for a playoff spot but has set its sights on a Super Bowl run. The Buccaneers' roster, combined with Mayfield's performance, has generated considerable optimism among fans and analysts alike.

Critics who once doubted Mayfield are now acknowledging his growth, particularly in his decision-making and ability to lead the offense under pressure. His synergy with key receivers has added depth to the Buccaneers' offensive strategies, making them a formidable contender in the upcoming season.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced significant challenges during the 2023 season, particularly with one of the least effective rushing offenses in the league. This issue was exacerbated by the departure of offensive coordinator Dave Canales, who moved on to become the head coach of the Carolina Panthers. To address their struggles, the Buccaneers appointed Liam Coen as the new offensive coordinator and invested a fourth-round pick in Oregon running back Bucky Irving.

Irving's arrival, combined with Coen's fresh strategies and the addition of new center Graham Barton, has revitalized the Buccaneers' ground game. With these changes, Tampa Bay appears poised to enhance their rushing performance in the upcoming season, aiming to reclaim their competitive edge in the NFC South.

Rookie draft strategies are evolving as fantasy managers gear up for 2025. Players like Jaydon Blue (Dallas Cowboys), Dylan Sampson (Cleveland Browns), and Emeka Egbuka (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) are capturing attention as potential sleepers. Blue's speed and versatility make him a significant threat in a revamping Dallas backfield, while Sampson's impressive collegiate performance positions him as a possibly undervalued asset in Cleveland's running game. Egbuka, despite a crowded receiving corps in Tampa Bay, offers potential upside due to his skill set and the uncertainty surrounding the team's veteran receivers.

Other notable mentions include Tre Harris (Los Angeles Chargers), who has an opportunity to shine alongside established players, and Kyle Williams (New England Patriots) who could become a favorite target for second-year quarterback Drake Maye. With these rookies, there’s significant potential to find late-round gems that can yield high returns in fantasy leagues this season.

Jason Licht's journey from scouting assistant to the prominent general manager of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers showcases the evolution of a dedicated football mind. Drafting Mike Evans, a player on the brink of Hall of Fame recognition, with the seventh overall pick in 2014 marked a significant milestone in his career. While he acknowledges the challenges he faced entering a struggling franchise, Licht's strategic vision and determination have been pivotal in reshaping the Buccaneers' fortunes.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively seeking to fill the void left by Minkah Fitzpatrick's departure to the Miami Dolphins. General manager Omar Khan has made a significant trade, bringing in cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith while sending Fitzpatrick back to Miami. This leaves the Steelers in need of a safety, and local talent Jordan Whitehead may be a fitting option given his roots in Pennsylvania and his collegiate experience at the University of Pittsburgh.

Whitehead, drafted in the fourth round by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2018, has demonstrated his skills as a safety and could provide both familiarity and capability to the Steelers' defense. As they look to bolster their secondary, Whitehead’s potential to return to his home state offers an intriguing possibility for both the player and the team.