At the 2026 NFL combine, Tampa Bay Buccaneers leadership addressed the team's disappointing 2025 season that ended without a playoff berth for the first time since 2020. General manager Jason Licht called missing the postseason a 'painful experience' after a 6-2 start that had many pegging the Bucs as Super Bowl contenders. The team has decided to retain head coach Todd Bowles despite the downturn.

Licht expressed unwavering support for quarterback Baker Mayfield, whose production dipped from 41 touchdowns in 2024 to 26 in 2025. The GM attributed much of Mayfield's struggles to injuries along the offensive line and at wide receiver, where the team lost key players like Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan, and Chris Godwin Jr. for significant time. The Buccaneers plan to discuss a contract extension with Mayfield, who carries a $39,375,000 salary cap charge in the final year of his deal.

Other notable developments include the Bucs expressing strong interest in bringing back linebacker Lavonte David for a 15th season, with the decision said to be in his court. Bowles indicated that hiring offensive coordinator Zac Robinson will allow him to focus more on defensive responsibilities, addressing a unit that saw red zone efficiency drop from 54.4% to 69.8% in 2025.