SAD NEWS: Antoine Winfield Jr. Will Leave Tampa Bay Buccaneers Because of…
Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. has been selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to receive a franchise tag for the 2024 campaign. They still want to sign him to a long-term contract before the deadline in mid-July, though.
The Buccaneers’ decision was anticipated given that quarterback Baker Mayfield was not selected for franchise tag. With Mayfield set to become an unrestricted free agency next week, they still want to pursue a contract extension with him.
Winfield, a 2020 second-round selection, has emerged as one of the Buccaneers’ most important players, starting all 59 of his games. With stellar numbers in 2023—122 total tackles, 6.0 sacks, six tackles for loss, three interceptions, and six forced fumbles—he was named to the inaugural team of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
After a number of players were formally designated as franchise tags by their respective teams, the franchise tag window closed. The Bucs have been aggressive in acquiring their main players; Mike Evans was most recently awarded a $52 million, two-year contract deal.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have taken a number of noteworthy actions to keep their great players. They just signed wide receiver Mike Evans to a $52 million, two-year contract, elevating his salary to among the highest in the league.
This extension was completed just before to the NFL free agency period beginning. Antoine Winfield Jr., an All-Pro safety, was also assigned to the Bucs. The franchise tag is a stopgap as the organization works toward a long-term deal with Winfield.
Winfield had a fantastic season, topping all defensive backs in several statistical categories and earning his coach’s commendation for his remarkable efforts in practice and competition. For his accomplishments, he was selected a first-team All-Pro.
The Bucs are hoping to extend quarterback Baker Mayfield’s contract before he becomes a free agent the following week. Mayfield made a playoff run in his first season and guided the team to a winning record in 2020.
The Bucs are committed on securing their main players and extending their winning campaign.
The 2020 NFL draft saw the selection of Antoine Winfield Jr., a second-round pick, as the son of former standout cornerback Antoine Winfield Sr. He began his professional life as a safety, moved to Nickelback in 2022, and then went back to being a safety in 2023.
He intercepted Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl and forced a fumble against Drew Brees during his first season. Throughout his career, he has also demonstrated his abilities with sacks, forced fumbles, recoveries, and interceptions.
was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to be a vital factor on their defensive line. They are committed to his further development because they have named him their franchise player until 2024.
He may negotiate with other clubs using the franchise tag, but the Buccaneers have the option to match any offer. The club he joins with has to give the Buccaneers two first-round draft selections if the other team’s offer isn’t matched.