Oct 26, 2023; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien (29) warms up before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

Todd Bowles names one player who has already made the Buccaneers' roster

Originally posted on Tampa Bay Buccaneers on SI
By Darius Hayes | Last updated Jul 29, 2025 7:00 AM ET

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are still sorting through roster decisions in training camp.

There is one young Buccaneers player who doesn’t need to worry about his status, however — defensive back Christian Izien, who the team signed as a UDFA out of Rutgers in 2023.

Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles made it crystal clear that Izien is not only safe to make the roster, but also a key figure on the team’s defense moving forward.

"Izzy's valuable. He's going to be here. I can say he made the team. I can tell you he made the team," Bowles said with a chuckle during a recent press conference.

The Bucs have relied heavily on Izien’s versatility since he arrived in 2023. He’s played in many roles on special teams and defense and has stepped up in ways that have made him stand out.

"He does so many things well for us, and he's a football player," Bowles continued. "He comes to practice, he comes to play, you see the same guy every day. He just loves to play, and the guys love him, so he's been great for the defense."

Even when asked to take on new challenges on the fly, Izien has proven he’s built for the moment. Bowles recalled one such instance where he stepped into an unfamiliar role at outside cornerback last season without hesitation. Izien hadn't played outside corner since high school, but when he was asked to do so due to cornerback injuries, he was able to make some plays.

"It was impressive that he didn't flinch when he did it," Bowles said. "I'm sure there were some technique things he can work on, but he didn't flinch when he did it. It was like, 'Whatever you need, Coach.' And he went in and he made some plays."

That attitude, combined with his work ethic, has made Izien a favorite in the locker room. After playing a major role on the Buccaners defense last season, Izien is primed for another strong year and has the full endorsement of his head coach to back it up.