When Tez Johnson stepped onto the field for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the season‑opening win over the Atlanta Falcons, most fans barely noticed him. The 23‑year‑old rookie, a seventh‑round pick from the University of Oregon, logged a meager eight snaps from scrimmage and failed to catch his lone target. Yet, fast‑forward to Week 7, and Johnson has become a legitimate receiving option, thanks to a cascade of injuries that reshuffled the Bucs’ depth chart.
Week 1: A Quiet Debut at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
On September 9, 2025, the Buccaneers edged Atlanta 23‑20 at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Georgia. While veteran Sterling Shepard saw 37 snaps and hauled in five receptions to finish tied for second in team targets, Johnson’s eight‑snap cameo was almost invisible. RotoWire’s staff noted, “Johnson logged a scant eight snaps despite being listed as the No. 3 receiver on the depth chart.” The rookie’s four‑year, $5.4 million contract, signed in May, looked promising on paper but hardly translated to playing time.
Preseason Highlights and Early Setbacks
Johnson’s preseason was a mixed bag. The Pewter Plank, a local Bucs beat‑writer, recalled that Johnson missed the first preseason game with a minor injury and muffed a punt in Week 2 against the Steelers. Still, he shone in later outings, catching four passes for 24 yards against Pittsburgh and then delivering an eight‑catch, 58‑yard performance capped by his first NFL touchdown in the final preseason game.
Those moments hinted at a skill set that could thrive when given the chance: precise route running, reliable hands, and an ability to create separation even against seasoned defenders.
Week 2: The Healthy Scratch Decision
Following the Falcons win, the Buccaneers faced the Houston Texans on September 15 at NRG Stadium. Despite a roster thin on depth, head coach Todd Bowles and general manager Dave Downey elected to make Johnson a healthy scratch. The move sparked chatter on fantasy boards—many wondered if the rookie’s draft position (241st overall) doomed him to a bench role.
Week 7: Injuries Open the Door
By October 20, the Buccaneers were battling the Detroit Lions at Ford Field in Michigan. A broken collarbone and concussion sidelined Pro Bowl star Mike Evans, while backup Chris Godwin grappled with a fibula fracture. The injuries forced offensive coordinator Liam Coen to lean on younger talent.
That night, quarterback Baker Mayfield connected with Johnson on a 22‑yard touchdown pass with just under nine minutes left in the third quarter. Johnson finished with four receptions on nine targets for 58 yards and the score, tying for second on the team in catches and yards. By that point, his season totals read 10 receptions, 170 yards, and two touchdowns on 19 targets—a 17.0‑yard average that outpaced many veterans.
Depth‑Chart Dynamics: From Third‑String to Potential Starter
The Buccaneers entered 2025 with a deep receiving corps: the aforementioned Evans and Godwin, plus the reliable Shepard. Analysts expected Johnson to fight for a fifth‑string slot at best. However, the injuries accelerated his climb. RotoWire’s October 20 analysis warned, “If Evans and Godwin continue to miss time, Johnson could be set for an elevated role for the remainder of the season.”
Indeed, the rookie’s route‑tree usage expanded dramatically. In the Lions game, he ran deeper post routes—a stark contrast to his preseason focus on short, quick slants. Coaches praised his “football IQ” and “ability to adjust on the fly,” quoting Bowles saying, “Tez shows he can be a piece of the puzzle when we need him.”
What Lies Ahead for Johnson
If the Bucs’ injury carousel persists, Johnson may finish his rookie year as a regular third‑down target. Fantasy owners are already taking note; his Average Draft Position (ADP) rose from #335.82 in early preseason rankings to a mid‑150s range by Week 7, according to RotoWire.
Beyond the numbers, the story underscores a broader NFL truth: late‑round picks often need a confluence of opportunity and preparation to break out. Johnson’s journey—from eight snaps to a 22‑yard touchdown—illustrates how perseverance meets circumstance on the professional stage.
- 8 snaps in Week 1 vs. Atlanta
- Healthy scratch in Week 2 vs. Houston
- First NFL TD in preseason finale
- 22‑yard TD vs. Detroit in Week 7
- Season totals (as of Week 7): 10 rec, 170 yds, 2 TDs
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Tez Johnson’s emergence affect the Buccaneers’ receiving strategy?
Johnson provides the Bucs with a reliable slot‑receiver who can stretch defenses. With Evans and Godwin sidelined, his quick‑release routes and ability to gain after the catch give Tampa Bay a viable third‑down option, allowing Mayfield to keep defenses honest.
What were the key factors that limited Johnson to eight snaps in Week 1?
Coach Bowles prioritized veteran chemistry early, keeping the depth chart anchored by Shepard. Additionally, Johnson was still adjusting to the NFL’s speed, and the game script didn’t demand many third‑down conversions, limiting his opportunities.
Which injuries opened the door for Johnson’s increased role?
Mike Evans suffered a broken collarbone and concussion, while Chris Godwin broke his fibula. Their absences forced the Buccaneers to elevate younger receivers, and Johnson earned more snaps as a result.
What do analysts predict for Johnson’s fantasy outlook?
Experts say his ADP could drop into the mid‑150s, making him a waiver‑wire target for fantasy managers looking for upside. Consistent targets and a higher yards‑per‑reception average bolster his value.
How does Johnson’s college performance at Oregon translate to the NFL?
At Oregon, Johnson amassed 169 catches for 2,080 yards and 20 touchdowns over 26 games, demonstrating consistency and big‑play ability. Those traits are now evident in his NFL routes, especially his knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage.