When conversations surface about the NFL’s best general managers, names like Howie Roseman, Brett Veach, and others typically dominate the discussion.
Yet, Jason Licht has quietly authored one of the league’s most impressive résumés since taking over in Tampa Bay in 2014.
He doesn’t always chase headlines, but his approach -- balancing savvy draft selections, financial discipline, and strong coach–GM synergy -- has yielded results.
A Super Bowl in 2020 was the pinnacle, but Licht’s consistency goes deeper. Even as the roster transitioned away from Tom Brady’s championship window, Licht managed to keep the Buccaneers relevant and competitive in the NFC South.
From draft steals to roster stability, Tampa Bay thrives under Licht’s quiet brilliance.
Drafting With Precision
Licht’s success starts in April. His track record in both early and late rounds has given Tampa Bay one of the league’s most complete rosters. Mike Evans, a cornerstone since Licht’s first draft, embodies the consistency and reliability the front office seeks. Tristan Wirfs has become a premier left tackle. Vita Vea remains a disruptive interior anchor. And Antoine Winfield Jr., drafted in the second round, blossomed into an All-Pro safety who sets the tone on defense.
Just as impressive are Licht’s late-round gems. Fifth- and sixth-round picks have routinely cracked the rotation, providing depth and long-term value. Few GMs maintain that hit rate, but Licht has done it across multiple classes, ensuring Tampa Bay doesn’t just rely on its stars to compete.
Keeping the Core Together
Beyond drafting, Licht deserves a tip of the cap for keeping the heart of his roster intact. In an era of constant turnover, the Buccaneers have managed to retain their nucleus -- Evans, Chris Godwin, Lavonte David, including the aformentioned Wirfs and Vea. That stability has allowed Tampa Bay to weather changes at quarterback and coordinator, without losing its true identity.
These decisions aren’t just about money. They’re about culture. Players know the organization values loyalty and performance, which creates buy-in and continuity. For Licht, that’s as valuable as any draft pick.
Coaching alignment and the transition under center
Perhaps Licht’s most underappreciated quality is his alignment with the coaching staff. Bruce Arians’ hire in 2019 proved pivotal, bringing an aggressive offensive mindset that fit Tampa’s roster. When Arians stepped aside, Licht ensured continuity by elevating Todd Bowles, keeping the locker room steady during a potentially volatile transition.
The Brady years naturally brought glamour, but it’s what came after that truly underscores Licht’s adaptability. Signing Baker Mayfield was no sure thing. Yet, Licht’s faith in the former No. 1 overall selection -- paired with surrounding talent and Bowles’ defense -- gave Tampa Bay an immediate post-Brady direction.
Mayfield’s resurgence in 2023 and his return for 2024 weren’t just about quarterback play; they were about a GM constructing the right environment for success.
Sirvocea Dennis
Licht’s eye for finding value deep in the process extends to the 2023 draft, where fifth-round linebacker Sirvocea Dennis has emerged as one of the most intriguing young pieces on the defense. After an up and down first two seasons that saw him appear in a total of 17 games combined, Dennis made his presence felt in Week 1 this fall against Atlanta, showcasing range, instincts, and poise well beyond his draft slot.
Dennis’ performance is a reminder of how Licht consistently uncovers contributors outside the top 100 picks.
His speed and ability to read plays allowed him to flow sideline-to-sideline, complementing Lavonte David in the heart of the defense. In just his third season, Dennis looks poised to become a long-term starter -- a developmental success that again reflects Licht’s eye for undervalued talent.
Building for Both Now and Later
What sets Licht apart is his ability to balance the present with the future. Tampa Bay never feels like a team clinging to its past glory, nor does it ever feel like a franchise tearing it all down. Instead, Licht has crafted a steady competitive cycle.
The roster still features veterans like Evans and David, but behind them are waves of younger players -- Wirfs, Winfield, Calijah Kancey, Bucky Irving, rookie WR Emeka Egbuka, and Dennis -- who keep the window open.
Licht understands that championships require depth, as well as timing, and his roster-building philosophy checks all three boxes.
So why doesn’t Licht receive the same acclaim as some of his peers? Part of it could be Tampa Bay’s market. The Buccaneers don’t generate the constant national spotlight of other teams. Another factor is the narrative gravity of Tom Brady’s arrival -- many assumed the franchise’s success was tied solely to him.
But the reality is clear: Brady alone doesn’t win a Super Bowl without the infrastructure Licht had already built. Nor does Baker Mayfield revive his career without Licht creating the right situation. The GM’s fingerprints are all over Tampa Bay’s stability, yet his name rarely dominates league-wide discussions.
The Steady Hand That Keeps Them Relevant
As the 2025 season unfolds, the Buccaneers once again find themselves positioned as a tough out in the NFC. Licht’s drafting, player retention, and coaching alignment have made that possible. And as veterans continue to produce and young contributors evolve, his work speaks for itself.
The Buccaneers may not always be flashy, but under Licht's watchful eye, they are always relevant. And bottom line, it's the mark of a general manager who deserves far more recognition than he receives.