The Mike Evans-less Buccaneers are going to look different offensively in 2026. As part of their subtle offensive makeover, the team could look to add an intriguing spark to the unit.
According to ESPN’s Jordan Reid, the Buccaneers have “keyed in” on the tight end position ahead of the draft. That’s made Oregon TE Kenyon Sadiq a “real possibility” for the organization at pick No. 15.
Sadiq is widely considered the top tight end prospect in the draft, and he’ll likely be the only player at his position selected on Day 1. The tight end saw a larger role with the Ducks in 2024, including a Big Ten Football Championship Game when he hauled in a pair of touchdowns. He had a true breakout in 2025, finishing with 51 catches for 560 yards and eight touchdowns.
Scouts have touted the Oregon star’s offensive tenacity, and his size and speed will make him an intriguing piece in an NFL offense. While scouts are similarly wary of his pass-blocking ability, teams generally value pass-catching prowess when it comes to first-round investments at the position.
The Buccaneers are among the squads that would consider the star TE. Cade Otton has led the depth chart for several years but has never emerged as a top-tier player at the position. The veteran been relatively steady, especially over the past two years, when he’s averaged 59 catches, 586 yards, and more than two touchdowns per season. Still, it’s hard to blame the Buccaneers for considering an upgrade, especially with Evans no longer around.
The organization somewhat prepared for Evans departure during the 2025 draft, when they added Emeka Egbuka with the 19th-overall pick. The Ohio State product finished his rookie season with 938 receiving yards and six touchdowns, and he’ll lead the pass-catching corps in 2026. With Chris Godwin hitting his twilight, Sadiq could join Egbuka and recent draft picks Jalen McMillan and Tez Johnson as young pieces on Tampa Bay’s offense.
The Ducks to Bucs pipeline is real.
He shouldn’t be.