Emeka Egbuka Could be Primed for Year 2 Breakout

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka faded after a slow start in his rookie NFL season in 2025, but he could have a clear path to his first 1,000-yard season next year with veteran wideout Mike Evans set to test the free-agent market. Over his first five career games, the 23-year-old 19th overall pick out of Ohio State caught 25 of his 38 targets for 445 yards and five touchdowns. Injuries to Evans, Chris Godwin, and Jalen McMillan helped Egbuka's cause as one of quarterback Baker Mayfield's go-to options through the air. Egbuka started to cool off for fantasy managers when Evans, Godwin, and McMillan all returned from their injuries. Still, it was a very successful first year in the NFL for Egbuka, who finished with a 63-938-6 line on 127 targets in 17 regular-season games. He should have an elevated target share with a very high ceiling in fantasy in 2026 if Evans signs elsewhere in free agency.

Source: Pro Football Reference