Haason Reddick’s arrival in Tampa Bay is more than just another offseason signing — it’s a potential game-changer for the Buccaneers’ defense.
Coming off a turbulent 2024 season with the New York Jets, the former Pro Bowl pass rusher is looking to silence doubts and reestablish himself among the league’s elite.
Haason Reddick’s Comeback Bid Begins With Buccaneers
Reddick’s resume is stacked with production: 59 career sacks, including 50.5 over a four-year span from 2020 to 2023. However, in 10 games with the Jets last season, he only recorded one sack. The drop-off was largely attributed to a chaotic season that saw him traded from Philadelphia to New York, skip training camp over a contract dispute, and not play until late October.
The Buccaneers are betting that 2024 was an anomaly. They signed Reddick to a one-year, $14 million deal, $12 million of which is guaranteed. His addition addresses an edge-rushing unit that, while productive with 46 total sacks last year, relied heavily on interior pressure from players like Calijah Kancey (7.5 sacks) and Vita Vea (seven sacks).
Reddick’s reunion with outside linebackers coach Larry Foote may prove crucial to his resurgence. The two go back to their days in Arizona, and their connection runs deep.
“He’s pissed off, and we like that,” Bucs assistant Larry Foote says of new OLB Haason Reddick and his motivation to show he’s still an elite NFL pass rusher.
— Greg Auman (@gregauman)
“He’s coming in with a big chip on his shoulder,” Foote said. “He’s upset – and we like it. He’s pissed off. He wants to show this league that he’s one of the premier pass rushers in this league and we got a spot for him. He’s motivated, he’s a guy who loves training, loves working out, but he’s got something to prove. We’re here to help him.”
Foote knows exactly what Reddick brings to the table and is confident in his impact.
“Speed, he brings about (60) sacks under his belt,” Foote said. “He knows how to rush the passer. He’s been a natural. I make fun of him because when I was recruiting him at Temple I told him ‘Tell this league you want to play rusher.’ … He’s just improved, watching him through the years I’ve always followed him. His game is just getting better.”
Foote’s coaching style is old school, and with Reddick, he’s not holding back.
“We got a tight relationship,” Foote said. “I just look at him as family. He’s had dinner at my house several times in Arizona, my wife and kids know him. I get to really coach him old school.”
As the Buccaneers aim for a fifth straight NFC South title, all eyes will be on Reddick — a man with something to prove and a coach who knows how to unlock his best.
