The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made strategic moves ahead of the 2025 NFL season, aiming to strengthen their roster and improve their performance in the NFC South. In addition to key weapons for star quarterback Baker Mayfield, the Bucs will give a second chance to a player who was previously on the roster and has also played for the Los Angeles Chargers.
Among the additions to strengthen the offense led by Mayfield, the signing of outside linebacker Haason Reddick stands out with a one-year, $14 million contract. Additionally, the Bucs bolstered their offensive line by re-signing guard Ben Bredeson to a three-year, $22 million deal and bringing in offensive tackle Charlie Heck on a one-year contract.
However, to make a deep run in the NFL, Tampa Bay understands the importance of strengthening its defensive depth and adding more options to solidify that part of the team. In line with that goal, the Buccaneers decided to re-sign a player who was previously on the roster.
Who is the player who returned to Tampa Bay?
The player who has returned to the Buccaneers is none other than defensive end Eric Banks, who signed a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay franchise, according to Greg Auman of Fox Sports. This will be his second opportunity with Mayfield’s team after missing the entire previous season.
The reason he didn’t play a single minute for the Bucs last year was a torn triceps injury in the summer that sidelined him for the entire 2024 season. Throughout his career, Banks has played a handful of games during his stints with the Chargers and the Arizona Cardinals.
Mayfield’s impact on the 2025 NFL season
2025 will be a crucial year for the Bucs. A significant part of the team’s expectations will rest on Mayfield after a standout season in which he recorded 4,500 passing yards and 41 touchdowns, his best numbers as a pro in a single campaign. If the Buccaneers surround him with the right pieces, the 29-year-old quarterback could deliver impressive results.