The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter training camp with a tight end room that has a clear pecking order but still faces questions about overall production and depth.
The group is led by Cade Otton, with Payne Durham serving as the primary backup. Rookie Bauer Sharp enters camp looking to carve out a role, while Ko Kieft continues to provide value as a versatile blocker and special teams contributor. Devin Culp and Kenny Fletcher Jr. round out the room as they compete for roster spots and playing time.
While the top of the depth chart appears settled, training camp will determine how the rest of the position group takes shape.
Cade Otton Remains the Clear Starter
Cade Otton enters the season as Tampa Bay’s unquestioned No. 1 tight end.
He has established himself as a reliable option in both the passing game and as a blocker. The Buccaneers know what they have in Otton, and his ability to stay on the field in a variety of situations makes him one of the offense’s most dependable players.
As the starter, expectations will remain high for him to provide consistency and leadership within the room. Otton HAS to produce more.
Payne Durham Should Keep the Backup Role
Payne Durham enters camp as the clear No. 2 tight end.
His role behind Otton gives the Buccaneers continuity at the position and provides another option capable of contributing when called upon. Durham’s development remains important as Tampa Bay looks to improve its overall production from the tight end room.
A strong camp could further solidify his place in the offensive rotation. Durham needs more opportunities, and needs to capitalize on them when they come.
Rookie Bauer Sharp Looks to Make an Early Impression
Bauer Sharp enters his first NFL training camp with an opportunity to earn a role immediately.
The rookie will be one of the more closely watched players in the position group as coaches evaluate how quickly he can adapt to the professional game. If he develops quickly, Sharp could find opportunities to contribute as the season progresses.
Training camp and preseason reps will be critical to his development. Sharp has all the tools, let’s hope we get to see them.
Ko Kieft Continues to Fill a Unique Role
Ko Kieft remains one of the more unique players in the room.
While listed as a tight end, much of his value comes as a blocker, special teams contributor, and occasional fullback-type option. His versatility gives the Buccaneers flexibility when constructing game plans and managing roster roles.
That niche continues to make him an important piece of the position group. Kieft’s role is established.
Devin Culp Faces a Critical Camp
Few players in the room have more to prove than Devin Culp.
Despite possessing intriguing athletic traits, he has yet to establish a consistent role within the offense. Entering camp, Culp will be looking to change that narrative and show he can earn more opportunities when the regular season arrives.
His performance throughout camp could determine his future standing within the group. If not, you’ll see him on the waiver wire.
Kenny Fletcher Jr. Competing for a Roster Spot
Kenny Fletcher Jr. enters camp as part of the competition at the bottom of the depth chart.
Like many players fighting for roster consideration, his path to sticking around will likely require strong preseason performances and contributions on special teams.
Every practice and preseason snap will matter. Practice Squad seems to be the destination for Fletcher Jr.
Biggest Question Entering Camp
Can the Buccaneers get more production from the tight end room beyond Cade Otton?
Otton provides stability at the top, but Tampa Bay would benefit from additional contributions throughout the position group. The development of Durham and Sharp, along with Culp’s attempt to carve out a role, will be among the biggest storylines to watch.
Final Outlook
The Buccaneers enter training camp with a tight end room that has a clear starter but several unanswered questions behind him.
Cade Otton leads the group, Payne Durham provides experienced depth, and Bauer Sharp offers intriguing rookie potential. Ko Kieft continues to fill a valuable hybrid role, while Devin Culp and Kenny Fletcher Jr. fight for opportunities.
How much production Tampa Bay receives beyond Otton could determine whether this group becomes a strength or remains a complementary piece of the offense in 2026.
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