Tampa Bay Buccaneers Week 1 Preview: Falcons Matchup, Depth Chart, and Key Storylines

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers kick off their 2025 NFL season with a divisional clash against the Atlanta Falcons, aiming for a historic fifth straight NFC South title. With Baker Mayfield coming off a career-best season and first-round pick Emeka Egbuka stepping into a starting role, the Buccaneers’ offense remains one of the most dangerous in the league. However, injuries to Chris Godwin, Jalen McMillan, and Tristan Wirfs mean Tampa Bay’s depth will be tested immediately against a Falcons squad led by young quarterback Michael Penix Jr. Defensively, the Buccaneers are looking to unleash newcomer Haason Reddick to boost their edge rush and pressure Penix, while veterans like Vita Vea and Lavonte David anchor the unit. Special teams strategy also shifts with new kickoff rules, putting more emphasis on field position. With key roster updates, depth chart surprises, and Luke Goedeke’s massive extension, Tampa Bay enters Week One ready to prove they are still the team to beat in the NFC South. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices