As of right now when you think of Buccaneers wide receivers you think of Mike Evans, DeSean Jackson, Adam Humphries, and Chris Godwin. You think of them in that order as well.
The fifth receiver spot is up for grabs and there is a ton of talent pushing to claim it.
Donteea Dye, Shaq Hill, Derel Walker, and Jesus “Bobo” Wilson have thrown their hat in the ring, but it’s looking like the main competition for that spot will be between Bernard Reedy, Josh Huff, and Freddie Martino.
Martino showcased his abilities last season, and although he has played in 13 games, he was relatively quiet until the final stretch of the season in which he recorded 8 catches for 142 yards and one touchdown (A game winner against the Bears). He has had 1 reception this preseason and it was for 14 yards.
Bernard “Speedy” Reedy’s speed was hyped up by Dirk Koetter so much that he was thought to be a shoe in to be the fifth guy back in 2016. Injuries kept that from becoming a reality. However, so far this preseason, he is re-enforcing his stake for claim to the fifth spot with 5 receptions for 40 yards and 2 kick returns for 47 yards (Long of 29). Reedy has also returned 3 punts for a 13.7 yard average and a long of 22 yards.
Josh Huff was picked up by the Buccaneers after he was released by the Philadelphia Eagles following an incident in which he was arrested. He made a claim for the fifth spot, last season, after being activated during the final three games of the season and recorded 3 catches for 41 yards and returned six kicks for 72 yards. So far this preseason he has recorded 2 catches for 13 yards and 2 kick returns for 64 yards (Long of 47).
Dirk Koetter said that the fifth receiver has to be a guy, who can not only come in and cover for an injured player, but can play effectively on special teams. As of right now it seems that Huff, Reedy, and Martino are the front runners for the fifth spot, as coach Koetter has stated they are the most consistent. It’s going to be a tough call for our HC, but regardless of who takes the fifth spot, they have to be able to be a journeyman.
