A classic tale of two halves can best describe the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' 2025 season.
Starting 5-1, Tampa was flying, but then the collapse happened, and the franchise finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs.
For the first time in five years, the Buccaneers weren't in the playoffs and weren't NFC South champs.
Todd Bowles has had his future questioned, and the defense had poor moments, as did the offense.
But for CBS Sports' Josh Edwards, one reason for hope in 2026 lies squarely at the feet of Baker Mayfield.
"Tampa Bay has a collection of pass catchers who rival almost anyone in the league when healthy," Edwards wrote. "Quarterback Baker Mayfield is as consistent as any in the league, but there was clearly something bothering him in the second half of the season. Assuming he returns to full health, there is no reason to think that team could not return to form in 2026."
More: Todd Bowles gives outstanding response over Buccaneers future
Can Buccaneers steady ship for 2026?
They can. But one thing must be done for that to happen.
The franchise has to get on top of its crippling injuries.
In the back-to-back seasons, the Buccaneers suffered mightily with injuries. In 2024, they were lucky enough to overcome it. In 2025? Not so much.
The offense has enough key pieces for the Buccaneers to bounce back with ease. But the defense for most is where the problems are, and that's Bowles' department.
We have seen the Baltimore Ravens move on from John Harbaugh, and for some Bucs fans, Bowles should follow suit.
But the key to a 2026 revival lies with Baker and this star-studded offense.
More Buccaneers news:
- Buccaneers get what they deserve after Week 18 disaster
- Buccaneers 'break that spell' in Week 18, but too little, too late?
- No Week 18 pity party for Buccaneers' Todd Bowles
- Why Buccaneers' 'main focus' is an odd aspect of Week 18