Since camp opened, Johnson has consistently been one of the offense’s biggest playmakers, making jaw-dropping catches seemingly every practice. Hauling in contested receptions, creating separation with his quickness, or extending to snag passes outside his frame, Johnson has quickly become one of the most talked-about players on the practice field.
Johnson’s route running has been particularly impressive. Despite not possessing the size of some of Tampa Bay’s other receivers, he has consistently created separation with crisp breaks and elite change of direction ability. His chemistry with quarterback Baker Mayfield also appears to be growing by the day, as Baker has shown increasing confidence in looking Johnson’s way during both team drills and red zone work.
Following the departures not only of Mike Evans and Sterling Shepard, who Johnson mostly shared snaps with over the offseason, but opportunities are also available in the Buccaneers’ receiver room behind Chris Godwin Jr, Emeka Egbuka, and Jalen McMillan. Johnson entered camp battling to carve out a meaningful offensive role, and through the first several practices, he has done everything possible to strengthen his case.
It’s still early, and training camp success doesn’t always guarantee regular-season production. However, Johnson is giving the Buccaneers every reason to believe he can become more than just a developmental receiver and the “lone man out” at WR4.
If he continues making highlight reel grabs at the pace he’s established over the opening week of camp, it will become increasingly difficult for the coaching staff to keep him off the field once the regular season begins, and the gadget receiver could carve out a major role in his sophomore season.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Tez Johnson continues to steal the spotlight at Bucs training camp
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
