Buccaneers Have an Underrated Weapon in Kameron Johnson

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers still have plenty of talent at wide receiver despite losing a franchise legend this offseason.

One player who could receive more attention in 2026 is Kameron Johnson. The third-year receiver has already established himself as a dangerous return specialist.

Tampa Bay Times reporter Rick Stroud believes Johnson deserves even more recognition. Stroud recently identified him among the Buccaneers’ “Best Weapons” heading into the 2026 season.

Rick Stroud Highlights Johnson’s Potential

Johnson enters his third season with Tampa Bay after making the roster as an undrafted free agent in 2023.

Stroud believes his impact could extend well beyond his responsibilities as the team’s returner.

“Kameron Johnson is the Bucs’ sixth receiver,” Stroud posted. “He might also be one of their best weapons. The 5-foot-10, 170-pound Johnson serves as the primary punt and kickoff returner. When you consider which player could have an instant impact for the Bucs, remember that Johnson’s 54-yard punt return against Atlanta in Week 1 last season was the longest for Tampa Bay since Bobby Rainey’s 58-yarder in 2015. The performance earned Johnson the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week.”

That production gives Johnson an intriguing path toward making an impact whenever he touches the football.

Johnson Took an Unusual Path to Tampa Bay

Johnson’s journey to the NFL began at the NCAA Division II level.

He joined Barton College when the school relaunched its football program in 2020. Because of the pandemic, that season ultimately wasn’t played until the spring of 2021.

Johnson wasted little time making an impression once he finally reached the field. On his first touch, he took a reverse and threw a 58-yard touchdown pass back to the quarterback.

He eventually became one of the most productive players in program history. Johnson earned All-South Atlantic Conference honors twice during his four seasons.

Johnson Left His Mark at Barton

Johnson’s college production demonstrated that his playmaking ability wasn’t limited to returning kicks.

Barton lists him as the program’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown catches. He finished his career with 151 receptions, 2,316 receiving yards and 17 touchdown catches.

Johnson also excelled as a returner. He finished his college career leading Barton in both punt return yards and kickoff return yards.

Those accomplishments helped Johnson earn an opportunity with Tampa Bay despite entering the league undrafted.

Fearlessness Defines Johnson’s Approach

Johnson has now spent three seasons working his way into Tampa Bay’s plans.

His role as a returner requires confidence, instincts and an ability to make quick decisions. Johnson understands that hesitation can eliminate the opportunity to make a big play.

“You got to be fearless back there,” Johnson told Stroud. “You’ve got to be able, as soon as you get the ball, to be able to see where you’re going immediately. You’ve got to trust it. You’ve got to trust the guys who are blocking for you. You’ve got to trust that the scheme is going to work. You’ve got to trust your ability and what God gives you.”

That mindset has helped Johnson carve out a place on the Buccaneers’ roster.

Tampa Bay Could Get More From Johnson

Johnson’s return ability already gives Tampa Bay a potential source of explosive plays. His history as a productive receiver also shows he has experience creating opportunities with the ball in his hands.

The Buccaneers don’t necessarily need Johnson to become a featured receiver to benefit from his presence. His ability to change field position and create momentum could make him valuable throughout the season.

Stroud’s assessment could ultimately prove significant. Johnson may be Tampa Bay’s sixth receiver, but that doesn’t mean he is the least dangerous weapon in the group.

Shout out to Tony Adame of heavy.com for quotes and concept.