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Buccaneers GM Confident in Leadership of Mayfield, Veterans
TL;DR
Buccaneers GM Jason Licht expresses confidence in Baker Mayfield and veteran players as the team faces the loss of key figures Mike Evans and Lavonte David. The team is navigating significant changes with their leadership.
Key points
- Buccaneers GM Jason Licht is confident in Baker Mayfield's leadership
- Team lost Mike Evans to the San Francisco 49ers
- Lavonte David announced his retirement recently
- Buccaneers are replacing two of their best players
- Licht acknowledges the challenges ahead for the team
Tampa Bay BuccaneersSan Francisco 49ers
Buccaneers GM Confident in Leadership of Mayfield, Veterans
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in the process as a team of replacing two of their best players ever, and general manager Jason Licht understands the challenges ahead.
When Mike Evans signed a three-year, $60 million deal with the San Francisco 49ers last month, the Bucs lost their all-time leading receiver.
When Lavonte David announced his retirement two weeks later, the Bucs lost their most productive linebacker outside of Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks.
The 2026 season will be Tampaās first without Evans since 2014 and first without David since 2011. But Licht is confident Tampa has the leaders it needs to move forward.
Licht told a team reporter with the Bucs' official website Wednesday that he feels good about the players Tampa Bay has coming back, with quarterback Baker Mayfield leading the way.
āWe have got Tykee (Smith), Calijah (Kancey), the entire offensive line, Bucky (Irving),ā Licht said.
Thereās another player Licht named-checked as essential to the team going forward: Vita Vea.
Vea is entering his ninth season with Tampa Bay, and Lichit said the 6-foot-4, 347-pound defensive tackle is a leader "in his own way."
Q&A
What did Buccaneers GM Jason Licht say about Baker Mayfield's leadership?
Jason Licht expressed confidence in Baker Mayfield's leadership as the Buccaneers adapt to recent changes in their roster.
Who are the key players the Buccaneers lost recently?
The Buccaneers recently lost Mike Evans to the San Francisco 49ers and Lavonte David, who announced his retirement.
What impact do the losses of Mike Evans and Lavonte David have on the Buccaneers?
Losing Mike Evans and Lavonte David significantly impacts the Buccaneers, as they were pivotal players in the team's history and performance.
How is the Buccaneers' management addressing the challenges of replacing key players?
The Buccaneers' management, led by GM Jason Licht, is focusing on the leadership of Baker Mayfield and veteran players to navigate the transition.