The Buccaneers did not rush for a franchise-record 324 yards against the Atlanta Falcons by accident. Bucky Irving and Kenny Gainwell deserve plenty of credit for what they accomplished, but the blocking around them was just as important. Tampa Bay's tight ends and wide receivers embraced the physical side of the game, helping turn routine runs into explosive gains. One player in particular, rookie Bauer Sharp, is showing exactly why the organization was willing to move up in the draft to get him.
The Buccaneers leaned heavily on multiple tight end formations, often using 12 and 13 personnel to add blockers. Cade Otton played 95% of the offensive snaps, while Payne Durham played 70%. That increased workload was not simply about giving the offense
different looks. Tampa Bay wanted to establish a physical presence at the line of scrimmage, and its tight ends helped make that possible.
The wide receivers played their part, too. Chris Godwin, Ted Hurst, Tez Johnson, and David Sills were asked to block rather than simply wait for opportunities to make plays downfield. With the weather limiting the passing game, those assignments became even more important. Every extra block helped create another crease for Irving and Gainwell to attack. Sharp was arguably the biggest standout. Tampa Bay used the rookie as an in-line tight end and even moved him into the backfield as a lead blocker. One of his most impressive plays came on Gainwell's 28-yard run, when Sharp pulled across the formation and delivered a punishing block that knocked an Atlanta defender to the ground. It was the kind of play that doesn't show up in the box score but directly contributes to an explosive run.
The Buccaneers traded up 10 spots in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, sending their seventh-round pick to Las Vegas to select Sharp at No. 185. That decision looks increasingly worthwhile. Sharp has only one reception this season, but his value is becoming obvious in the way Tampa Bay is using him. Head coach Todd Bowles has praised his athleticism, willingness to block, and progress in learning the run scheme. Irving and Gainwell supplied the production, but the tight ends and receivers helped create the conditions for it. Sharp is becoming an important part of that formula, and his performance against Atlanta showed that his impact can extend well beyond catching passes.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs unsung heroes are making a major impact on the ground
