Baker Mayfield Target Could Bloom in 2026

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers had a disappointing season, but it wasn’t because of quarterback Baker Mayfield. He’s solid.

What Mayfield needs are solid targets around him, of course. Now, one of those targets is getting some positive press. He deserves it, too.

Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports is highlighting his absolute favorite under-the-radar breakout stars for 2026.

“The offseason and preseason do provide plenty of opportunities for individuals to make their jumps from relative unknowns — at least to casual fans — to standouts,” he says.

For the Buccaneers, he loves wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. It’s easy to see why, too.

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“Emeka Egbuka entered the league absolutely on fire, averaging 89 yards per game and catching five touchdown passes across his first five games,” he states in the piece. “Then he averaged 41 yards per contest and caught just one touchdown the rest of the season.”

He adds: “Drops plagued him during the rough patch, a disappointing development for a player whose biggest calling card coming out of Ohio State was his ability to always make the right play.”

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So, why could this be his year? After Tampa Bay parted ways with Mike Evans, it left an opening for a wideout to step it up. Plus, Chris Godwin has been dealing with health issues, and he’s closer to retirement than being an active player for years to come.

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This story was originally published June 11, 2026 at 11:23 AM.