As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers begin their 2025 training camp, the roster is deeper, faster, and more competitive than it’s been in years. That means players who struggled last season or haven’t lived up to expectations are firmly on notice. Whether they’re fighting for a roster spot or trying to hold off younger competition, these Bucs need a big summer.

Trey Palmer, Wide Receiver

Palmer’s sophomore season was a step backward: just 12 catches for 122 yards and limited impact as a deep threat. Now he’s battling for a job in a reloaded wide receiver room that includes Emeka Egbuka and Tez Johnson. He’ll need to prove his value on special teams after nearly fair-catch-catching his way to the bench, and regain his vertical spark to survive final cuts.

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Ko Kieft, Tight End

Kieft has held a roster spot as a blocking specialist, but his role has narrowed with more dynamic tight ends like Payne Durham and rookie Devin Culp in the mix. Kieft’s lack of receiving upside puts him on the bubble unless he can shine in short-yardage packages and on special teams.

Josh Hayes, Cornerback

A core special teamer last season, Hayes struggled in spot duty at cornerback and now finds himself buried on the depth chart behind Jamel Dean, Zyon McCollum, and promising rookies Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish. He’ll need to deliver consistently in coverage and special teams drills to hold off incoming competition and secure a depth spot.

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Jamel Dean, Cornerback

Dean enters 2025 needing to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 campaign, where he battled injuries and inconsistent play. With just one interception in 2024 and never having a complete season, rookie corners could start pushing for reps. Dean’s status as a starter is no longer guaranteed. He must re-establish himself with consistent, physical reps in camp.

SirVocea Dennis, Linebacker

Viewed as a breakout candidate a year ago, Dennis missed nearly the entire year with a shoulder injury that required surgery. With Lavonte David returning for what is likely his final season and the Bucs retaining Deion Jones as well as signing Anthony Walker Jr, Dennis needs to prove he can stay healthy, call the defense, and contribute in coverage if he wants to start at LB2 and be considered as the heir to the Lavonte throne.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 5 Bucs who must bounce back during training camp in 2025