Bucs WR has had historic start to NFL career

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Buccaneers WR Emeka Egbuka has had historic start to NFL career

By Mike J. Asti | Last updated Oct 10, 2025 4:13 PM ET

While most would credit quarterback Baker Mayfield with the early-season success of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' offense, he wouldn't be an MVP candidate without the help of a rookie wide receiver making history.

Emeka Egbuka has exceeded even the highest of expectations for any rookie wide receiver. As Tampa heads into its Week 6 matchup against the 49ers, Egbuka is the first receiver in NFL history to have at least 25 receptions and five touchdowns over his first five games.

Rookie making history @EgbukaEmeka | @Buccaneers pic.twitter.com/DxAspZKn4z
— NFL (@NFL) October 10, 2025

Egbuka, who entered the NFL after winning the 2024 national championship with Ohio State, has caught 25 passes for 445 yards and an average of 17.8 yards per catch, placing him among the top receivers in the league. Ranked second in the NFL in touchdowns and fourth in yardage, Egbuka has established himself as a player with all the makings of a true No. 1 target.

It's no coincidence that Egbuka's most productive games have been his most recent. With veteran Mike Evans nursing a hamstring injury, one that's expected to keep him out for a third-straight game, Egbuka has stepped up and emerged as a reliable option for Mayfield.

Egbuka is coming off a monster performance in Week 5, making seven catches and going a perfect 7-for-7 in targets with a season-high 163 yards and a touchdown. He also had four receptions for 101 yards and a pair of touchdowns in Week 4. Egbuka's historic pace has helped to fill a major void in the Buccaneers' offense.

Mike J. Asti

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

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