Buccaneers' reliable tight end and primary starter at the position, Cade Otton, is dealing with a leg injury in addition to a hamstring ailment. Due to soreness, Otton is expected to "be out a little bit" according to Head Coach Todd Bowles. The Bucs' staff will have more clarity on a timeline of return for Otton next week but in the meantime, Payne Durham, Devin Culp and Ko Kieft will have to step up in Otton's absence.
Otton missed time at the end of the 2024 regular season due to a knee injury but helped spearhead the offense midway through last season's slate when Mike Evans and Chris Godwin Jr. were sidelined due to injury. In the trio of contests following the loss to the Ravens via Monday Night Football in which Evans (hamstring) and Godwin (dislocated ankle) sustained injuries, Otton posted an astounding 25 catches, 258 yards and three touchdowns. Through Week Eight of the 2024 season, Otton ranked third in the NFL in receptions among tight ends (36), sixth in receiving yards (344), and tied for fourth in touchdown catches (3). He took on an increased role in the offense, running routes that typically were assigned to Godwin, including out-breakers and wheels. In addition to his route-running, Otton became a bridge between the run and pass game with his blocking prowess on chip-and-releases or blitz pickups.
Now, Durham, Culp and Kieft will help supplement the production of Otton. Last season, Durham primarily made a contribution in the run game with perimeter blocks, along with Ko Kieft. Both created lanes for rushers and provided Baker Mayfield with additional time to get the ball off. Durham played 430 snaps (37.65%) and Kieft notched 104 (9.11%) last season. Culp posted 41 snaps in 2024 and developed down the stretch. He brought in a few contested catches downfield to spur the Bucs' aerial attack and the trio will likely take on increased roles.
Durham can beat coverage underneath and exploits the middle of the field versus zone. Culp flashed with several circus grabs during training camp and has the speed to push the field vertically. He can create mismatches on the grass and Kieft is tough at the point of attack. The Minnesota product is effective blocking in space and all three will be called upon to contribute.
