The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have had a rough go on the offensive end to begin the season. Even though they’ve been putting up points in a hurry, the plethora of injuries to the unit has severely hampered them all season long. However, the one bright spot through the first four weeks of the season has been rookie Emeka Egbuka.
Announcing his arrival with a monstrous two-touchdown debut, including the game-winning score, Egbuka has quickly solidified himself as a major component of the offense. As the team looked to bounce back from their first loss of the season against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4, the rookie was a player they had to rely on a ton, especially with Mike Evans out of the lineup. Unfortunately, the first half wasn’t to that effect.
What Happened to Emeka Egbuka?
Despite both teams coming into the game with a 3-1 record, the Buccaneers thoroughly dominated the first half. Leading 13-0, Seattle added a touchdown right at the end of the half, with just six seconds on the clock.
For the Bucs, though, the offense had been widespread among all its pieces. As a result, Egbuka’s individual numbers were limited, as he finished the half with just two receptions for 33 yards on four targets.
After hip and groin issues bothered him earlier in the year, fans in Tampa Bay had to be worried about some ailment flaring up for Egbuka again. However, coming out of the break, he quietened any worries fans may have had.
6️⃣ & 2️⃣ are a dangerous combo 🔥
📺: #TBvsSEA on CBS pic.twitter.com/hbvSjnt0jz
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) October 5, 2025
Adding three more catches to his total, he recorded another 96 yards, bringing his total to 129 yards. His three receptions of the third quarter included a 20-yard touchdown, which he then doubled down on by hauling in the two-point conversion, and a 57-yard bomb to set up a Rachaad White touchdown run.
His night, however, wasn’t over just yet. As Seattle matched the Buccaneers blow for blow, the clutch factor from Baker Mayfield once again came into play. Leading a touchdown drive down the field with a shade over two minutes, he connected with Egbuka twice more.
Then, a critical interception in the final minute thrown by Sam Darnold gave Tampa Bay the ball back, allowing Chase McLaughlin to kick in the game-winner. For the night, Egbuka finished with the best game of his career, adding 163 yards and a touchdown on just seven catches.