Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Week 10 Depth Chart: New Receiver Alignment
With the release of their Week 10 game materials, the Buccaneers have officially updated their depth chart — and the receiver room has seen some notable shifts. Let’s break down what’s changing, what it means, and what to watch moving forward.
🔍 What’s changed in the receiver alignment
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The update highlights a realignment of the three WR spots on offense.
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With Mike Evans moved to injured reserve, the “third” receiver spot has been reassigned:
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The starters are now: Chris Godwin and Emeka Egbuka.
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The third starter listed: Sterling Shepard.
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Meanwhile, rookie Tez Johnson is slotted directly behind Godwin.
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There’s also a mention of increased snaps for Johnson: he started the most recent game in New Orleans and had 41 snaps compared to Egbuka’s 51. He recorded five catches for 43 yards.
✅ Why these changes make sense
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With Evans on IR, it was necessary for Tampa Bay to shuffle the roster and elevate the next tier of receivers. The depth chart reflects that.
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Egbuka’s placement among starters shows faith in his early role and ability to contribute.
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Johnson’s expanded usage suggests the coaching staff is trusting the rookie more — this is not just a nominal listing behind Godwin but an indication of on‑field opportunity.
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Having Sterling Shepard step into a starting role injects veteran presence and stability, which is especially important with significant changes at wideout.
⚠️ What are the caveats/risks
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While Godwin is still listed among starters, he has had injury issues this season (a fibula injury) and may not be fully rested or ready for Week 10.
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Egbuka and Johnson are young receivers. Their production is promising, but there’s still risk in relying heavily on newer players in critical roles.
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Depth beyond the top three is less certain: the backups (e.g., Ryan Miller) will likely see more snaps and will have to be ready. The depth chart lists Egbuka and Ryan Miller as the “third” WR group.
🔮 What to watch
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Godwin’s status: Is he 100%? Will his role be scaled? His health will impact how the receivers are used.
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Tez Johnson’s growth: Having recorded 5 catches for 43 yards in limited time, how will he perform under more consistent reps?
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Egbuka’s trajectory: As a rookie starter, does he maintain or increase his production?
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Schemes & playcalling changes: With personnel shifts, does the team alter routes, formations or usage to maximize strengths of this adjusted group?
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Depth beyond starters: Injuries often compound — having reliable “next‑man up” receivers could decide close games.
📝 Final thought
The Buccaneers’ adjustment to their Week 10 depth chart signals a clear shift in direction at the receiver position. With Mike Evans sidelined, the franchise is leaning into a mix of veteran steadiness (Shepard), proven reliability (Godwin), and youthful upside (Egbuka + Johnson). This move gives Tampa Bay both flexibility and a blueprint for moving forward — but much will depend on health and performance in the coming weeks.
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