The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed O-linemen Michael Jordan & Tyler McLellan on July 25 to protect Baker Mayfield for their 2024 season NFC South title run.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just as the cannons are being polished for training camp, the Buccaneers' front office made it clear Friday that protecting the quarterback remains priority number one. The team announced the signings of veteran guard Michael Jordan and tackle Tyler McLellan, adding crucial depth and competition to the offensive line as Tampa Bay gears up for its historic pursuit of a fifth consecutive NFC South title.
Just be you, Baker.
The path to a fifth straight division title runs through the trenches, and the Bucs added two new road-graders on Friday. Guard Michael Jordan, formerly of the Patriots, and tackle Tyler McLellan, last with the Chargers, bring a mix of experience and potential to a group tasked with keeping Baker Mayfield upright. These aren't just camp bodies; they represent a strategic move by the front office to build a fortress around the franchise QB, ensuring that depth concerns don't derail the season before it starts. Both will immediately jump into the competition for key backup roles.
With a reinforced line in front of him, the pressure now shifts to Baker Mayfield to elevate his game even further. Speaking to reporters, Mayfield was clear about his personal goal for 2025: smarter decision-making. After two strong years leading the Bucs, he's not looking to reinvent himself, but to refine his approach. His simple mantra? "Just be you, Baker." For fans, that means trusting the elite Baker who can win games with his arm and legs, while cutting down on the costly turnovers that can flip a game's momentum. It's the kind of focus you want to see from your leader as the quest for a fifth straight division title begins.
While the veterans settled in, one of the most intriguing rookies began his NFL journey on the sideline. Defensive tackle Desmond Watson, the heaviest player in the league who tipped the scales at a staggering 464 pounds at his pro day, was placed on the non-football injury list. Head Coach Todd Bowles confirmed it was weight-related, calling the massive lineman 'day to day' as he works with the team's nutritionist. Watson is a developmental project with immense potential if he can get into playing shape, and his progress will be one of the most fascinating subplots of training camp.
Adding a little spice to the day, former Super Bowl-winning coach Jon Gruden resurfaced, telling Pewter Report he's eager to get back into coaching. He had high praise for the current Bucs squad, applauding their run of four straight division titles. In classic Gruden fashion, he also weighed in on the team's 1976 throwback uniforms, admitting he prefers the modern pewter and red but appreciates the nod to history. It's always interesting to hear from the man who brought Tampa its first Lombardi Trophy.
Friday's news paints a clear picture: the Buccaneers are in win-now mode and leaving no stone unturned. From bolstering the offensive line to managing unique player projects and with the franchise quarterback laser-focused on efficiency, every move is calculated. As training camp gets underway, the real battles begin, and the foundation laid today will be critical in the quest to hang a fifth straight NFC South banner at Raymond James Stadium.
