Buccaneers Starters Will See Preseason Action Against Chiefs

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers got valuable work during their 24-16 preseason win over the New York Jets.

However, none of that work featured the team’s starters. The Bucs played backups throughout the victory, with some backups also sitting out.

The performance showcased promising depth and provided an encouraging start to the preseason. Fans also got their first opportunity to see several training camp standouts.

Still, many wondered when Tampa Bay’s starters would finally see preseason action. That question was answered Saturday as the Buccaneers prepare for Week 2.

Buccaneers Starters to Play vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed the Bucs starters will play against the Kansas City Chiefs. FOX Sports’ Greg Auman reported the news following Friday’s victory.

Bowles is still deciding how much the starters will play against Kansas City. Their workload could range from a drive or two to the first half.

That decision could also change based on how the upcoming week of practice develops. Bowles will have more information before determining their final workloads.

Last year, quarterback Baker Mayfield did not participate in any preseason games. He was initially slated to play against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mayfield was expected to play with Tampa Bay’s starters during that game. However, Bowles ultimately decided to keep him on the sideline after the practice week.

No Joint Practice This Week

Last year’s situation also included a joint practice with the Steelers. Joint practices can provide an intense workload before a preseason game.

The Buccaneers will not have a joint practice before facing Kansas City this year. That could make Bowles more comfortable playing his starters.

As a result, the Buccaneers could see several key starters take their first preseason snaps. That includes Mayfield, who did not appear during last year’s preseason.

The matchup will also mark Rueben Bain Jr.’s preseason debut. Bain did not play against the Jets during Tampa Bay’s preseason opener.

Bain is a rookie, but Bowles was satisfied with his performance during joint practice. That helped allow the Buccaneers to keep him out against New York.

Now, Bain could get his first preseason opportunity against the Chiefs. Tampa Bay’s starters will finally have their chance to take the field.