Training camp will be the proving ground for several young players looking to take on expanded roles. While established stars like Lavonte David, Antoine Winfield Jr., and Mike Evans provide the leadership backbone, the Bucs’ ability to sustain success will depend on which younger contributors rise during the summer grind.
Here are three Buccaneers entering pivotal years who are poised to break out at training camp
SirVocea Dennis, Linebacker
SirVocea Dennis is no longer an unknown name in the Buccaneers’ building.
Now entering his third NFL season, the former fifth-round pick out of Pitt is pushing hard to earn a more prominent role at inside linebacker. Injuries limited his opportunities in his first two seasons, but he’s been a standout in offseason workouts, and the coaching staff has taken notice. With KJ Britt no longer on the roster and Lavonte David nearing the twilight of his Hall-of-Fame-caliber career, Dennis has a clear path to meaningful playing time. He brings a combination of range, intelligence, and toughness that suits Todd Bowles’ aggressive scheme well. If he can stack good practices and flash in preseason games, Dennis could be the surprise glue guy in the middle of Tampa Bay’s defense.
Yaya Diaby, Edge Rusher
Among all breakout candidates on the Bucs’ roster, Yaya Diaby may be the most obvious and the most exciting. Diaby showed promise in 2024, finishing with solid pressure numbers despite a limited workload. Now in his third season, he’s in a position to put up even bigger numbers opposite newly acquired veteran Haason Reddick. Diaby’s explosive first step and raw strength were already impressive last season, but he’s reportedly refined his technique over the offseason, working on his hand usage and counters. With opposing offenses likely to key on Reddick and interior disruptors like Vita Vea, Diaby will have more one-on-one matchups to exploit. If his camp performance matches the offseason buzz, Diaby could emerge as one of the Bucs’ most productive pass rushers.
Tykee Smith, Cornerback
Tykee Smith made an immediate impact in his rookie season, showcasing the physicality and instincts that made him a standout at Georgia. In 2024, he rotated between nickel corner and safety, collecting two interceptions, three forced fumbles, and a growing reputation as a playmaker in the secondary. Now entering his second season, Smith is expected to take on a larger hybrid role in Todd Bowles’ defense. With Antoine Winfield Jr. entrenched at free safety, Smith may be deployed in a variety of ways, covering tight ends, blitzing off the edge, and operating in run support. His versatility is a natural fit for Bowles’ scheme, and training camp will be a crucial window for Smith to earn trust and establish a full-time role.
