Tampa Bay Buccaneers shut out by Jacksonville Jaguars in preseason finale
The Buccaneers lost 19-0 to the Jaguars in the final preseason game, with several players struggling in key positions as roster decisions approach.
Tampa Bay fell to Jacksonville 19-0 in the final game of the 2026 preseason on Friday night. The loss left the Buccaneers without a single point and highlighted concerns for players fighting for roster spots.
Quarterback Jalon Daniels completed a short pass to Dean Patterson on the opening drive, but Patterson was unable to secure the ball, ending the drive. A later attempt to connect with Kam Johnson also fell short, as Johnson dropped the pass despite accurate timing.
Linebackers Nick Jackson and John Bullock each missed assignments in pass coverage, allowing the Jaguars to complete several plays, including a 34-yard gain to tight end Hunter Long. Both players are competing for practice-squad positions.
Running back Sean Tucker recorded an 8-yard rush but again struggled in pass protection, conceding a sack that added to questions about his reliability in that role.
The offensive line faced pressure throughout the game. Paul Rubelt allowed multiple pressures and was flagged for a false start, while tackle Elijah Klein gave up two sacks to defensive end Wesley Williams. Interior linemen also allowed pressure, and a botched snap by center Ben Scott contributed to the stalled offense.
Special teams struggled as well. The punt unit allowed several returns, including a 63-yard touchdown by Jacksonville returner Wortham after a breakdown in coverage. Punter Riley Dixon averaged 48.8 yards per punt with a 32.0-yard net average, but the unit’s overall performance was below expectations.
The Buccaneers will need to evaluate these performances as they finalize roster cuts within the next 48 hours.