Buccaneers Unleashed: Your Week 2 Fantasy Football Playbook!

Welcome back, fantasy managers! As Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season quickly approaches, it's time to fine-tune your lineups and gain that crucial edge. This week, we're diving deep into the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are set to face off against the Carolina Panthers in a divisional showdown. The Bucs' offense showed flashes of brilliance in Week 1, and with another opportunity to gel, their key players could be fantasy gold.

Let's break down who to start, who to watch, and who might be a sneaky play from the Bay.

Quarterback: Baker Mayfield (QB15-QB18 Range)

Baker Mayfield looked comfortable in the pocket in Week 1, demonstrating his connection with his top receivers. Against a Panthers defense that can be opportunistic but has also shown vulnerabilities, Mayfield presents a solid high-end QB2 option with low-end QB1 upside.

He’s unlikely to win you the week single-handedly, but his floor is respectable, especially if the game script forces Tampa Bay to throw frequently. Consider him a safe play if you’re looking for stability at the position or if your primary starter has a tough matchup.

Running Backs: Rachaad White (RB12-RB15 Range) & Bucky Irving (Flex Option)

Rachaad White continues to be the undisputed workhorse in Tampa Bay.

His dual-threat ability as both a runner and a pass-catcher makes him incredibly valuable in PPR formats. The Panthers' run defense, while improved, can be exploited, and White's volume ensures he’ll get plenty of opportunities to produce. He's a strong RB1 candidate this week. Keep an eye on rookie Bucky Irving as a potential deep-league flex option or handcuff; his explosive potential could see him earn more snaps as the season progresses, though Week 2 likely sees him in a complementary role.

Wide Receivers: Mike Evans (WR10-WR14 Range) & Chris Godwin (WR20-WR25 Range)

The legendary Mike Evans proved in Week 1 that age is just a number.

He remains Mayfield's primary deep threat and red-zone target. Against a Panthers secondary that might struggle to contain his physicality and precise route running, Evans is a must-start WR1 with significant touchdown upside. Chris Godwin, on the other hand, provides a high-volume, reliable safety blanket.

His target share should remain consistent, making him a solid WR2 or high-end WR3, especially in PPR leagues. Both receivers are excellent starts and should feast in this divisional battle.

Tight End: Cade Otton (TE15-TE18 Range)

Cade Otton showed promise last season and continued to be a reliable, albeit unspectacular, target in Week 1.

While he’s not in the elite tier of tight ends, Otton offers a decent floor as a streaming option or a bye-week fill-in, particularly in deeper leagues. He’s more of a touchdown-dependent play, but against a divisional rival, there's always a chance for increased involvement near the goal line. Manage expectations, but don't completely overlook him.

Kicker: Chase McLaughlin (K7-K10 Range)

Chase McLaughlin is a reliable leg for the Buccaneers.

In a game that could see plenty of offensive action and potential red-zone stalls, he could be busy. If you need a kicker, McLaughlin is a solid choice who should provide a safe floor with upside for multiple field goals and extra points.

Defense/Special Teams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers D/ST (DEF10-DEF14 Range)

The Buccaneers' defense consistently plays with high energy and can generate turnovers.

While the Panthers' offense has some weapons, the Bucs' D/ST could capitalize on potential mistakes, especially against a divisional opponent. They are a viable streaming option this week, offering sacks, potential interceptions, and a decent points floor. Consider them a mid-tier defense with the potential for a big play or two.

Overall, the Buccaneers' offensive players are poised for a productive Week 2 against the Panthers.

Prioritize your starts with Evans, White, and Godwin, and keep Mayfield in mind for a reliable QB2 performance. Good luck this week!