Todd Bowles: There Are Two Goals For Players In Rookie Minicamp
May 11th, 2024
Goals of rookie minicamp.
Todd Bowles said it best yesterday when he was pressed about Tykee Smith’s pick in his very first practice as a Bucs player.
“We’re not going to crown anyone on the first day,” Bowles said.
That doesn’t mean rookie minicamp is only for a bunch of dudes to run around and sweat. Bowles was asked if rookie minicamp is more for players to learn or for players to make an impression.
“A little of both,” Bowles said. “Obviously with the draft picks it is more about learning. For the free agents and tryout guys, it’s more about learning and making an impression.
“You want to come in in shape. You want to do the right things. You want to show growth. You want to show learning by each meeting and each day. Put your best foot forward.”
Clearly, the draft class is safe for the moment. They will be back in two weeks when OTAs get ramped up with the offense facing the defense.
The free agent guys and tryout dudes? Unless they are blowing up, they are on thin ice.
So not only do they have to demonstrate in underwear football that they can hang with the draft class (or later, the veterans) but also show they are learning the playbook.
May 11th, 2024 at 11:21 am
Though it’s still coach speak to an extent, was nice to hear an honest response from coach. Clearly the draft picks are safe. For now. And clearly the free agents have to do more to make an impression. None of it needs to be said, but when asked the question he said it at least.
May 11th, 2024 at 12:34 pm
Fire t b
May 11th, 2024 at 3:16 pm
2 1/2 mo –> training camp
-3 mo –> pre-season
-4 mo –> real NFL games
May 11th, 2024 at 3:23 pm
1. Get so confused that the players have no idea what to do.
2. Get used to the assignment bust scramble drill, to try to tackle the guy who was 20 yards wide open before he crosses the goal line.
May 11th, 2024 at 7:32 pm
Joe
Am I mistaken or are the OTA’s also underwear football? And are they optional for the Vets?
May 12th, 2024 at 8:53 am
You don’t make the team here. Bt you can sure make a bad first impression.
Extra hustle and know your assignment. If you are not sure…ask someone…
Go Bucs
May 12th, 2024 at 6:31 pm
This is the time to teach all the rookies all the positions on the team for versatility and to confuse the opponent. You go Todd. Having guys who can play all the positions on the field instead of one position exquisitely well, that’s what great coaches do.
They just don’t win more games than they lose, but, hey. At least you can prove you’re a genius.