Tampa Bay Buccaneers face high expectations for a strong season start

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter the 2026 season looking to avoid a repeat of last year's late-campaign collapse that resulted in a missed postseason appearance. Head coach Todd Bowles has historically achieved early-season success, maintaining an 18-6 record during the first six weeks of the schedule over his four-year tenure. This year, the team faces significant transition following the retirement of Lavonte David and the departure of Mike Evans to the San Francisco 49ers. Additionally, quarterback Baker Mayfield enters the season in the final year of his contract without a long-term extension. Pressure remains high to secure early victories against a schedule featuring only two 2025 playoff teams in the first six weeks. A poor start could invite public scrutiny regarding the coaching staff and the future of the current roster.

• 12:00 AMYahoo Sports — A slow start could sink the Buccaneers