The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Emeka Egbuka with high expectations in the 2025 draft, and through three weeks of NFL action, the rookie receiver is more than just meeting them; he’s exceeding them. Against the New York Jets, Egbuka put together another performance that underscored why many scouts had him pegged as first‑round material.
Playing through nagging hip and groin issues, Egbuka still managed six catches for 85 yards in Week 3. In a game where the Bucs were shorthanded, missing Chris Godwin Jr. before the game and Mike Evans leaving during, and with their offensive line in flux, Egbuka stepped up when they needed him most. His sideline toe-tapper in crunch time helped set up the Bucs’ game‑winning field goal.
He’s already made history as the first rookie in Buccaneers franchise history to haul in three touchdown receptions in his first two games. That speaks volumes about how quickly he’s adapted. Egbuka’s timing, route running, and ability to create separation have shown a maturity rare for this stage of a career.
What makes his burst especially noteworthy is that he was listed as questionable earlier in the week. Hip and groin issues limited him in practice, but he was cleared to play and didn’t just participate; he made big plays.
In short, Egbuka is doing more than filling in. He’s commanding attention, building trust with Baker Mayfield, and showing that the decision to take him early in the draft was justified. If he continues this trajectory, he’s going to be more than just a rookie surprise; he might be the Buccaneers’ go‑to receiver now and for years to come.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Emeka Egbuka continues to prove Jason Licht start in Week 3
