TAMPA, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles expressed confidence in quarterback Jalon Daniels after Wednesday’s practice, emphasizing preparation, improved pass protection and accountability as the team seeks its first victory of the season against the Green Bay Packers.
Daniels is preparing for his first NFL start, with Tampa Bay trying to avoid an 0-4 start. Bowles said the quarterback’s responsibility is to execute the offense while his teammates and coaches fulfill their own assignments.
“For us, it’s just trying to get a win,” Bowles said. “Everybody has to do their job.”
Daniels’ preparation and decision-making take priority
Bowles said film study and mental preparation will be central to Daniels’ readiness. He encouraged the quarterback to trust his experience and avoid trying to do too much.
The coaching staff is evaluating which elements of the game plan Daniels handles most comfortably. Bowles said veteran quarterback Baker Mayfield’s experience allows him to manage more checks, audibles and offensive adjustments.
“We’ve just got to make sure Jalon is comfortable with the things we give him,” Bowles said.
Although Daniels can extend plays outside the pocket, Bowles said his intelligence and pocket performance earned him a place on the roster.
“His intelligence and his pocket play is what got him on the team,” he said.
Bowles also dismissed the suggestion that entering the season with Daniels as the backup quarterback was a risk.
“He earned it, and he beat [the others] out fair and square,” Bowles said.
Pass protection needs improvement
Bowles said correcting pass protection requires contributions from both the offensive line and running backs. He identified communication, fundamentals and footwork as areas needing attention.
“The communication has got to be better,” he said.
Bowles confirmed that the team has adjusted aspects of its practice routine but declined to explain the changes.
He also said the coaching staff has discussed increasing running back Sean Tucker’s involvement.
“He definitely needs to run the ball a little bit more,” Bowles said.
Diaby, Bain among injury concerns
Bowles expressed optimism about outside linebacker Yaya Diaby, who is dealing with a calf injury, while saying outside linebacker Rueben Bain Jr.’s status remains uncertain.
“Yaya, we think, will be okay,” Bowles said. “Rueben, we’re still trying to decide, and we’ll see at the end of the week where he is.”
Bowles said Bain’s shoulder remains a concern.
Defensive lineman Rakeem Nuñez-Roches sustained a foot injury during stretching before putting on his uniform, according to Bowles.
Linebacker Josiah Trotter participated fully in Wednesday’s practice. Bowles said he would have a better assessment after Thursday’s practice in shoulder pads.
Packers present an explosive offensive challenge
Bowles praised Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love’s accuracy and command of the offense. He also highlighted tight end Tucker Kraft and the speed of receivers Christian Watson and Matthew Golden.
“Then, [Love] puts the ball on a dime,” Bowles said. “He knows how to get rid of it, and he understands the offense very well.”
Potential changes along Green Bay’s offensive line will require adjustments, Bowles said, but Tampa Bay’s defenders must remain focused on their assignments and technique.
Defense shows progress
Bowles said Tampa Bay’s defense performed significantly better against Minnesota than it did during the first two weeks.
He praised defensive lineman A’Shawn Robinson’s leadership, energy and tenacity, and said linebacker Alex Anzalone played well against the Vikings.
Outside linebacker David Walker has earned additional defensive snaps, Bowles said. The coaching staff also is working to expand safety Antoine Winfield Jr.’s role.
“We haven’t put in everything to access all his talents, and we’re working on that right now,” Bowles said.
Veteran leadership essential to a turnaround
Bowles described Sunday’s game as critical and said overcoming a difficult start requires mental toughness, veteran leadership and unity.
“You have some veterans that step up, and you stay the course and you stay together and you don’t point fingers,” he said. “Those are the teams that come out of it.”
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