LeSean McCoy Shakes Up View on Bucs’ Baker Mayfield

TAMPA, Fla. — Former NFL running back LeSean “Shady” McCoy has changed his tune regarding Baker Mayfield, who has struggled recently on the field. Once a critic of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback, McCoy now insists fans need to give Mayfield a break after a tough game against the Detroit Lions.

During a show on the Speakeasy YouTube channel, McCoy defended Mayfield, saying, “Hey, you’re allowed to have a bad game. All superstars go through that.” This pivot in perspective is especially surprising given McCoy’s history of openly critiquing Mayfield’s skills throughout the season.

McCoy also expressed confidence in the Buccaneers’ young receiving corps, which is facing challenges with injuries to star wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. “Even with the injuries, those young boys can go, though. I’m going to say it again,” McCoy stated. He highlighted the potential of the Bucs’ emerging players like Emeka Egbuka and Tez Johnson, suggesting they could step up in the absence of Evans and Godwin.

McCoy believes Egbuka, who has been impressing as a rookie, might be one of the keys for Tampa Bay moving forward. He mentioned, “The offensive line is good and Baker is a good quarterback. But the wide receivers over there might not be No. 13 or No. 14, they’re not that, but them young bulls can roll and they won’t miss a beat.”

Amidst mixed opinions from fans on social media, some echoed McCoy’s sentiments about the young talent stepping up, while others raised concerns about missing veteran leadership from Evans and Godwin.

As the Buccaneers prepare for upcoming games, it remains to be seen if the young receivers can effectively support Mayfield and maintain the team’s competitive edge.