Devin Culp’s Second Year: Can He Deliver for Buccaneers?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Devin Culp made a promising debut in the NFL last season. He did so by showcasing glimpses of his potential despite limited playing time. In five games, Culp hauled in five receptions for 88 yards, including two notable third-down grabs in Week 18 against the Saints. His standout performances hint at a special talent waiting to be fully utilized.

Culp’s speed and athleticism are expected to be a valuable asset for the Buccaneers this season. With his ability to stretch the field vertically and create mismatches, Culp could open up opportunities for other players. Head Coach Todd Bowles praises Culp’s growth, noting his athleticism and confidence have improved significantly. Culp’s playing style, which includes contested catches downfield and winning down the seam, could create problems for defenses.

Culp’s speed is particularly noteworthy, as he ran a 4.47 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. Making him a rare tight end with such athleticism. His potential role in the offense could involve utilizing his speed to create mismatches, potentially drawing safeties and freeing up other players. Quarterback Baker Mayfield believes Culp’s athleticism will create opportunities for the team, saying he trusts Culp and values his ability to stretch the field.

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With the Buccaneers’ loaded offense, Devin Culp may face challenges securing significant playing time, given his position on the depth chart. Cade Otton is established as the starting tight end, while Payne Durham and Ko Kieft are ahead of Culp. However, Culp’s athleticism and potential could still earn him opportunities to contribute in specific roles or situations.

Despite limited playing time (41 snaps) and modest stats (88 yards from 5 receptions) last season, Devin Culp showed promise towards the end of the regular season with back-to-back games of 56 and 32 yards. That momentum appears to have carried over into the offseason, with Coach Todd Bowles impressed by Culp’s performance in training camp.

“He’s probably the most athletic one,” Bowles stated. “He’s the fastest one for sure. I think that did a lot to his confidence and our confidence in him going forward. Obviously still like to see him block and pick up the scheme and do things certain things as far as motioning and blocking defensive ends and that type of thing. But as a receiver, he came on last year. Got a lot done for his confidence, and I think that’ll help him going into this year.”

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Culp’s receiving skills will likely earn him significant playing time in 2025, despite some areas for improvement. Standing at 6-4 and weighing 237 pounds, Culp’s exceptional speed – he ran a 4.47-second 40-yard dash – makes him a unique threat. His size and athleticism create matchup problems for defenders, and he could become a valuable asset in the Buccaneers’ offense under Coordinator Josh Grizzard. Culp’s ability to stretch the field vertically and create mismatches could open up opportunities for other players. With Bowles praising his work ethic and potential, Culp is poised to contribute to the team’s success.

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Culp’s ability to make plays in space and his receiving skills will likely earn him opportunities on the field. With Bowles praising his work ethic and potential, Culp is poised to contribute to the Buccaneers’ offense.