The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are strengthened for the 2025 NFL season with the addition of a former New York Jets player who spent time with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The arrival has prompted a statement from Jason Licht, the team’s general manager, who is led by star quarterback Baker Mayfield.
Tampa Bay signed linebacker Haason Reddick after a 2024 season that didn’t go as expected with the Jets, who had Rodgers as their star. The two-time Pro Bowler is ready to contribute to improving the Buccaneers‘ roster for the upcoming season.
Several franchises showed interest in signing Reddick despite his issues last year. Ultimately, the former Jets linebacker chose Tampa Bay’s offer, signing a one-year, $14 million contract as a free agent. Licht has reacted to his arrival.
Bucs GM’s admission about Reddick
“He’s such a freak, freak athlete and he really knows how to get after the quarterback. He’s going to be very hungry to prove to everybody that he is still the same player that he was before last year,” Licht said according to Joebucsfan.com.
Licht also shared his thoughts on Reddick’s year in New York. “It was just kind of a bizarre year for him as he explained with the Jets. But when we knew that he was going to be a free agent, and we had talked several times internally that if he hits free agency — or when he does — that this guy might be something that’s worth, you know, betting on,” he said.
Reddick could be a valuable addition for Mayfield
Reddick’s addition will be a big boost for Mayfield in his quest to lead the Bucs to success. The former Jets player, known for his ability to generate sacks and pressure the quarterback, will provide a valuable presence for Tampa Bay’s defense, creating opportunities for the secondary to focus on aerial plays.