It isn't any surprise to Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans if someone were to call the 2025 campaign a nightmare season. It was a total dumpster fire for so many reasons, starting with injuries, but it goes way deeper.
Now, as the Bucs try and pick up the pieces while gearing up for 2026, one of the first topics at hand is that of free agency. When it comes to the offseason, NFL free agency is the second big domino to fall, coming shortly after the Combine.
At first glance, the Bucs might look like they're in a somewhat-difficult spot when it comes to finances and the salary cap. Currently, Tampa Bay is looking at having roughly $16 million in cap room. However, that number very well could grow -- and by a huge margin, too.
All the Buccaneers have to do is make three specific moves, and believe it or not, it doesn't even include cutting a single player.
The Buccaneers could go all-in on 2026 by opening up a massive amount of cap space
One of the major keys to success in 2026 and beyond has to be quarterback Baker Mayfield. Last year, he simply wasn't healthy. He wasn't right. However, he's entering the final year of his 3-year, $100 million contract and the Bucs would be wise to extend him now, and for multiple reasons.
Obviously, if he's healthy this coming season, Mayfield is going to be much better than he was in 2025, and thus, his price goes up.
But, if the Bucs opted to extend him right now, that move, alone, would save them $21.36 million in cap space. That would more than double what they have, total, right now.
Speaking of extensions, another player the Bucs could look at extending is star safety Antoine Winfield Jr. Halfway through a 4-year deal, Tampa Bay could give him another year or two. At age 27, he is in the thick of his prime and giving him another season would only ensure he's around in a Bucs uniform even longer.
By extending Winfield, the Bucs automatically create another $14.62 million in cap space.
Finally, we look at one more player who should be in a Bucs uniform for many years to come. Left tackle Tristan Wirfs could also help out with the restructures, and if the team executed one with their franchise lineman, they'd open up $18.58 million.
Of course, Wirfs just signed his extension last fall, so a restructure feels more likely.
Three moves. $70 million in cap space overall.
That's all it takes.