The NFL offseason is always full of unexpected twists, and for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the 2025 offseason could bring some difficult roster decisions. Sure, every team has a handful of clear-cut cap casualties or underperformers bound for release. However, there’s usually at least one surprising cut that catches fans off guard. For the Bucs, a potential shocker could be running back Rachaad White. As Tampa Bay’s lead back for two seasons, White has delivered flashes of strong play. That said, questions remain about whether he’s the long-term solution in the backfield. With the team’s offensive approach evolving and financial considerations coming into play, White could find himself as an unexpected cut ahead of the 2025 season.
Since Tom Brady’s departure, Tampa Bay has managed to stay competitive. They have surpassed their final 8-9 season with Brady in each of the last two years. Yes, the Buccaneers aren’t a perfect team. That said, they appear to have solidified their quarterback situation with Baker Mayfield. The team has struck a balance between retaining key veterans and incorporating fresh talent.
During the Brady era, the Bucs spent aggressively to keep an aging roster intact. Now, general manager Jason Licht has the flexibility to reshape the team and build a sustainable contender for the future.
Despite falling short of a deep playoff run, Tampa Bay once again proved its resilience in 2024. They entered the season with tempered expectations following their surprising NFC South title in 2023. Still, many doubted their ability to remain in contention. However, the Bucs defied the skeptics, finishing with a 10-7 record and clinching another postseason berth. Mayfield continued to command the offense with efficiency, while the defense, despite injuries and inconsistencies in the secondary, remained a steady force. Sure, their playoff run ended sooner than hoped. However, the front office now faces critical decisions as they look to maintain their competitive edge heading into 2025.
Here we’ll try to identify the Tampa Bay Buccaneers player who could be the team’s surprise roster cut in the 2025 NFL offseason.
Heading into the 2024 season, Rachaad White was firmly established as the Buccaneers’ top running back after showing promise in his first two years. As expected, he played a significant role in the offense. He contributing both as a runner and a receiving option out of the backfield. Statistically, however, White saw his numbers go down. From 990 rushing and 549 receiving yards in 2023, he recorded just 613 and 393 yards respectively. His dual-threat ability provided value, but questions about his efficiency persisted. White was productive but not particularly explosive, and his struggles in short-yardage situations remained an issue.
The Buccaneers are facing a tricky salary cap situation entering the 2025 offseason. With only around $2.5 million in cap space and limited options for major cost-saving moves, Tampa Bay may have to make some difficult decisions. Sure, cutting big names like Vita Vea, Jamel Dean,...