Bucs get bittersweet Emeka Egbuka update ahead of Jets game

Two games into the 2025 season, the Ohio State product has played a pivotal role in Tampa Bay’s passing attack. He has hauled in eight of his 13 targets for 96 yards while leading the team with three touchdowns.

The first-round pick will provide a tough challenge for the Jets’ secondary, which has struggled immensely to open the season behind Sauce Gardner. New York especially needs a rebound performance from offseason free-agent addition Brandon Stephens, who has struggled mightily in coverage through the first two games.

Stephens has allowed eight of 10 targets against him to be completed for 94 yards and two touchdowns, while also committing a costly pass interference penalty in Week 1. Stephens dropped an interception in that game and has surrendered a staggering 145.4 passer rating when targeted by opposing quarterbacks.

Egbuka’s presence ensures quarterback Baker Mayfield will have one of his most reliable pass catchers. With Gardner expected to follow veteran Mike Evans, Tampa Bay will use its other weapons to exploit Stephens, including Egbuka.

Following a brutal start to the season, the pressure is on Stephens to prove he belongs in a starting role.