Buccaneers are the only team to lead NFL in very unique stat

When people talk about “homegrown” talent, they’re usually referring to players who were drafted or first signed by the team and stuck around. In today’s NFL, where free agency moves fast and rosters change constantly, keeping that much talent in-house is no easy feat.

The Buccaneers aren’t just keeping pace, they’re leading the league. For perspective, teams like the Ravens, Bills, Bengals, and Colts are also strong in this category, each sitting above 70 percent, but none of them touch Tampa Bay’s 82.5 percent.

When people talk about homegrown talent, they’re really pointing to the work general manager Jason Licht has done since taking over in 2014. Licht has hit on cornerstone draft picks like Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Vita Vea, Tristan Wirfs, Antoine Winfield Jr., and Devin White.

Those guys didn’t just fill roster spots, they became the backbone of a Super Bowl-winning team and the face of the franchise.

That kind of consistency is rare in the NFL. Every year, draft picks across the league flame out, but Tampa Bay has managed to draft well and, just as importantly, develop those players once they get to the building. Licht’s track record proves the front office doesn’t just chase flashy names.

It also says something about the locker room culture that players clearly want to stay and be part of what the Buccaneers are building. That kind of stability is rare, and it’s a big reason why Tampa Bay has been able to stay competitive even in the middle of roster transitions.

What It Says About the Buccaneers Future

This isn’t just a fun stat. Having the most homegrown players in the NFL shows the Buccaneers are building something sustainable. Chemistry, familiarity, and trust come easier when most of the roster has grown together. For a team that won a Super Bowl just a few seasons ago and has managed to stay in the playoff hunt post-Brady, this continuity is a huge advantage.

Tampa Bay isn’t just leaning on names, they’re leaning on players who’ve grown up in their system and know exactly what’s expected of them. That makes it easier for coaches to implement schemes and for teammates to trust each other on Sundays. Looking ahead to 2025, that stability could give the Buccaneers a serious edge as other teams juggle constant roster turnover.

The Buccaneers’ approach proves that you don’t need to constantly reload through free agency to win. Build from within, trust your people, and create a culture players don’t want to leave.