As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have begun mandatory minicamp, there are plenty of familiar names drawing attention. One player who shouldn’t be overlooked is safety J.J. Roberts.
The undrafted free agent out of Marshall was one of the biggest surprises of the Buccaneers’ 2025 offseason before a knee injury ended his rookie campaign before it ever truly began. Roberts impressed coaches throughout rookie minicamp, OTAs, training camp, and preseason action, quickly establishing himself as a legitimate contender for a roster spot. In the Buccaneers’ first preseason game last year, Roberts showcased the playmaking ability that made him a priority signing after the draft.
He finished with five tackles and two pass breakups, flashing the versatility and instincts that fit perfectly within Todd Bowles’ defensive system.
The excitement surrounding Roberts hasn’t faded despite the lost season. General manager Jason Licht recently referred to Roberts and fellow injured rookie David Walker as “bonus draft picks” returning to the roster in 2026, specifically highlighting the organization’s excitement about Roberts’ potential. Licht noted that Roberts can play both safety and nickel, a valuable trait in Tampa Bay’s defense that demands versatility from every position group.
That versatility could be Roberts’ biggest path to making an impact this season.
The Buccaneers already have established starters in Antoine Winfield Jr. and Tykee Smith, but Bowles has consistently shown a willingness to deploy multiple safeties and hybrid defensive backs. Roberts’ experience playing both cornerback and safety in college gives him the flexibility to line up in several different roles. Now healthy and back on the field, minicamp provides Roberts with an opportunity to pick up where he left off before the injury.
With questions surrounding Tampa Bay’s depth in the secondary, a strong summer could put him firmly in the mix for defensive snaps and special teams duties.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Buccaneers Mandatory Minicamp player to watch: DB J.J. Roberts
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
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By Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
