In the face of adversity, heroes emerge. For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, that hero has been tight end Cade Otton. With star receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin sidelined by injuries, the young tight end has seized the opportunity to showcase his skills and become quarterback Baker Mayfield’s go-to target.
The Rise of Cade Otton
Over the past three weeks, no tight end in the NFL has amassed more receiving yards than Otton’s 258. His three touchdowns during that span are also tied for the most among tight ends. Offensive coordinator Liam Coen had high praise for the third-year pro:
He’s got a knack for the game — he just knows the game. Sometimes people look at that as a knock — maybe they’re not as fast or as quick or as strong or can jump as high. He’s tough as nails, he’s smart as heck, and I’d love for my son to grow up to be Cade Otton. That’s the kind of guy that he is.
– Liam Coen, Buccaneers Offensive Coordinator
Otton’s emergence has been a silver lining for the Buccaneers during their three-game losing streak. His ability to find soft spots in zone coverage and win one-on-one matchups has made him an invaluable asset to Mayfield and the offense.
Chemistry with Baker Mayfield
Mayfield attributes much of Otton’s success to his football IQ and their growing rapport. “It’s all Cade,” Mayfield said. “A special player that is so smart, he knows where to be, he knows exactly what we’re trying to get done within whatever scheme we’re calling, run or pass, and he understands everything.”
This chemistry was on full display during the Buccaneers’ Week 9 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. Otton hauled in a career-high eight catches for 77 yards and a touchdown, consistently finding gaps in the Seahawks’ defense.
Stepping Up in Evans and Godwin’s Absence
With Evans out until at least after the Buccaneers’ Week 11 bye and Godwin sidelined for the season, Otton has embraced the challenge of becoming a focal point in the offense. “Seeing the way Mike and Chris have operated my whole time here, I just try and step up in their place,” Otton said.
Offensive coordinator Liam Coen has also played a role in Otton’s breakout, designing more plays to maximize the tight end’s skill set. Otton’s usage in motion and in the slot has increased significantly over the past three weeks.
Facing the 49ers’ Stingy Defense
Otton’s next challenge comes in the form of the San Francisco 49ers’ defense, which has been tough on opposing tight ends this season. The 49ers are allowing just 38.25 yards per game to tight ends, the fifth-best mark in the league.
However, the 49ers have been more vulnerable to targets in the slot, giving up 82.5 yards per game (11th most). This could bode well for Otton, who has run more routes from the slot than any other Buccaneers receiver over the past three weeks.
The Future is Bright
Regardless of the outcome against the 49ers, it’s clear that Cade Otton has a bright future in the NFL. His intelligence, toughness, and growing chemistry with Baker Mayfield have made him a rising star in the Buccaneers’ offense.
As the Buccaneers navigate injuries to their top receivers, they can take solace in knowing that they have a reliable target in Otton. With continued growth and opportunities, the young tight end could become a household name in the league for years to come.
