Cade Otton Injury News & Updates

Otton secured two of five targets for 28 yards in the Buccaneers' 44-32 loss to the Bills on Sunday.

Otton checked into Sunday's game riding a productive five-game run where he'd generated a 29-319-0 line on 37 targets, so his downturn against the Bills was significant. Baker Mayfield ultimately threw for only 173 yards against a tough Buffalo pass defense, however, putting Otton's modest numbers into better context. The talented tight end could have a chance to bounce back in a Week 12 road showdown against the Rams on Sunday night, considering Tampa Bay figures to have to remain aggressive to keep pace with Sean McVay's potent offense.

Otton secured nine of 12 targets for 82 yards in the Buccaneers' 28-23 loss to the Patriots on Sunday.

Otton led the Buccaneers in receptions and was second to Emeka Egbuka in both receiving yards and targets. All three components of the tight end's receiving line also qualified as season highs, and he's now exceeded 50 receiving yards in four of the last five games. Given both Chris Godwin (fibula) and Bucky Irving (foot/shoulder) could remain out for next Sunday's Week 11 road matchup against the Bills -- while Mike Evans (IR, collarbone/concussion) remains on injured reserve -- Otton may have another busy afternoon.

Otton had four receptions on five targets for 40 yards in Sunday's 23-3 win over the Saints.

Otton finished second in receiving production for the Buccaneers on a low-volume passing day. After a slow start to the campaign, the veteran tight end has picked things up with averages of 5.0 receptions and 59.3 yards over his last four appearances. Otton should continue seeing elevated usage out of Tampa Bay's upcoming bye week for a team dealing with multiple injuries at the receiver position.

Otton secured seven of nine targets for 65 yards in the Buccaneers' 24-9 loss to the Lions on Monday night.

Otton led the Buccaneers in receptions and receiving yards while tying for second in targets. The veteran tight end benefited from the absence of Chris Godwin (fibula) and the early exit of Mike Evans (concussion/collarbone), helping lead to Otton's season-high catch total. Otton also had what appeared to be a reception ultimately deemed an interception, but he could be due for another busy day in a Week 8 road divisional clash against the Saints if Godwin remains out and exacerbates the confirmed absence of Evans.

Otton had five receptions on six targets for 51 yards in Sunday's 30-19 win over the 49ers.

Otton paced the Buccaneers in targets and receptions while finishing with his second-highest yardage total of the season. Part of the reason the tight end was featured so prominently Sunday was the early departure of star rookie Emeka Egbuka. Otton remained scoreless through six starts, but he is getting involved downfield more often as Tampa Bay deals with injuries at the wideout position. Otton will look to build a hot streak with another strong showing against the Lions next Monday.

Otton had four receptions on five targets for 81 yards in Sunday's 38-35 win over the Seahawks.

Otton set new season highs in targets, receptions and yardage once the dust settled from Sunday's thrilling victory. The veteran starter produced next to nothing over his previous four appearances, literally saddling managers with bagels in the box score for Weeks 1 and 3. The 26-year-old is averaging 4.5 targets in the two games Mike Evans (hamstring) has missed, highlighting a window of elevated usage for the tight end while the team's star wideout is sidelined. Otton's strong results immediately put him back on the map at a shallow fantasy position for next Sunday's tilt against the 49ers.

Otton secured three of four targets for nine yards in the Buccaneers' 31-25 loss to the Eagles on Sunday.

The fourth-year tight end didn't crack the stat sheet in Week 3 despite playing 66 snaps, but he was back on the radar Sunday, albeit in very modest fashion. Otton once again spent the majority of the game on the field -- he played 69 snaps (96 percent). However, he's clearly taken a step back in the pecking order in new coordinator Josh Grizzard's scheme, considering he's mustered just a 6-34-0 line through four games despite playing every contest thus far without one of Mike Evans (hamstring) or Chris Godwin available.

Otton did not draw a target in the Buccaneers' 29-27 win over the Jets on Sunday.

Otton had a 92 percent snap share (66 snaps), making the fact he didn't see so much as a single target all the more alarming. The fourth-year tight end has now gone without a catch in two of the first three games despite the team's multiple absences at wide receiver, but he would seem to have a good chance of being much more involved in a Week 4 home showdown against the Eagles, especially if Mike Evans (hamstring) sits out the contest.

Otton brought in three of four targets for 25 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-19 win over the Texans on Monday night.

Otton recorded a robust 91 percent snap share (73 snaps) on the night and was able to get on the stat sheet for the first time in 2025 with his trio of catches. Backup tight end Payne Durham logged just 17 snaps (21.0 percent share), so Otton remains the clear-cut top pass-catching option at the position, although it's disappointing to see he's only drawn seven targets through two games despite the absences of Chris Godwin (ankle) and Jalen McMillan (IR-neck).

Otton failed to bring in any of his three targets in the Buccaneers' 23-20 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

After managing to head into the weekend without an injury designation following weeks of dealing with leg and groin issues, Otton wasn't able to get on the stat sheet for the first time since Week 2 of last season. Despite the blanking Sunday, Otton will naturally make a much bigger impact on the stat sheet in the majority of games this season, potentially beginning with a Week 2 road showdown against the Texans on Monday night, Sept. 15.

Otton (groin) practiced in full Thursday, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Following Wednesday's capped session with what officially was termed a groin injury, Otton was able to handle every practice rep one day later, setting him up to serve his usual function as the Buccaneers' No. 1 TE on Sunday in Atlanta. In two games against the Falcons last season, he combined for 12 catches (on 14 targets) for 125 yards and two touchdowns.

Otton (groin) practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Otton sustained a hamstring injury early in training camp, got back on the practice field as of Aug. 11 and played in preseason Week 2, when he didn't gather in either of his two targets. He then came down with a leg issue last Wednesday that now has been confirmed as a groin concern. Otton's status thus bears monitoring as the week goes on to get a sense of his chances to suit up Sunday in Atlanta.

Otton (leg) is participating in Monday's practice, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Otton is likely practicing on a limited basis Monday, but that's nonetheless a step in the right direction after it was reported last week that his leg injury could threaten his Week 1 availability. He previously missed time during the preseason due to a separate hamstring injury. Wednesday's first official practice report of the week will officially disclosed Otton's activity level as Sunday's regular-season opener on the road against Atlanta approaches.

Otton is dealing with a leg injury that could impact his Week 1 availability, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.

It's reportedly separate from the hamstring injury that limited Otton's participation during the second and third weeks of training camp. He even ended up making a preseason appearance, but now he's missing practice again less than two weeks before the regular-season opener against Atlanta. The Bucs kept four tight ends on their initial 53-man roster, likely setting up a committee between Devin Culp, Payne Durham and/or Ko Kieft if Otton were to miss Week 1.

Otton didn't make a catch on two targets in Saturday's 17-14 preseason win over the Steelers.

Otton has been sidelined for much of camp by a hamstring injury, but he returned to practice Monday. His participation in this contest is further confirmation that he should be on track to start the regular season, barring a recurrence of the issue. Otton played on three offensive drives with some of the Buccaneers' other starting skill-position players, including Bucky Irving.

Otton (hamstring) is participating in practice Monday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.

Otton has missed roughly two weeks of practice, plus Tampa Bay's preseason opener against Tennessee on Aug. 9, due to a lingering hamstring injury, so it's encouraging to see him back on the practice field. It remains to be seen whether Otton is currently limited or practicing in full, though it wouldn't be surprising if the Buccaneers opt to ramp up the starting TE's activity level in his return to the field. Otton's next opportunity to suit up for preseason reps will arrive Saturday versus the Steelers.

Otton (hamstring) is not practicing Tuesday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.

Otton has been sidelined for just over one week due to what head coach Todd Bowles indicated is a mild hamstring strain, so it's likely the Buccaneers are simply being cautious with the the fourth-year pro. The starting tight end could continue to sit out practices leading up to Tampa Bay's preseason opener against Tennessee on Aug. 9, but at this stage there still appear to be no concerns about his availability for Week 1. In the meantime, Payne Durham, Ko Kieft and Year 2 breakout candidate Devin Culp will benefit from increased chances for first-team reps.

Otton missed practice Sunday and Monday because of a mild hamstring injury, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles said the team wants to be cautious with Otton and a few other players that have minor injuries. The tight end may continue to miss practices, but it doesn't sound like there's concern about his Week 1 availability. Otton led all TEs in snap share (in active games) each of the past two seasons, logging 96.3 percent in 2023 and 91.9 percent in 2024.

Otton (undisclosed) is missing a second straight practice Monday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.

He likely has an unreported injury, though not necessarily a significant one. Including playoffs, Otton has played 51 of a possible 55 games since the Buccaneers made him a fourth-round pick in 2022. He's mostly put up mediocre receiving numbers on huge snap counts, except for Weeks 7-9 of last season when he put up 25-258-3 over a three-game stretch while Chris Godwin and Mike Evans were injured. Otton led all TEs in snap share (in active games) each of the past two seasons, logging 96.3 percent in 2023 and 91.9 percent in 2024.

Otton secured both targets for 32 yards in the Buccaneers' 23-20 wild-card loss to the Commanders on Sunday night.

Making his return from a three-game absence due to a knee injury, Otton finished tied with multiple teammates for second in receptions and targets while checking in third in receiving yards. Despite the three absences to close out the regular season, Otton still recorded a career-best 59 receptions, 600 receiving yards and 87 targets across 14 games, while also tying a career best with four touchdown grabs. The 2022 fourth-round pick also finished with a career-high 10.2 yards per catch with the help of a new personal best of seven grabs of 20-plus yards. With the final year of his rookie contract on tap in 2025, Otton may be a prime candidate for an extension this offseason.

Otton (knee) is listed as active for Sunday night's wild-card round game against the Commanders.

Though Otton was deemed a full practice participant Thursday and Friday, he approached the Buccaneers' postseason opener listed as questionable. In his return from a three-game absence, Otton should reclaim his role as a key pass catcher for QB Baker Mayfield alongside WRs Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan, with fellow TEs Payne Durham and Ko Kieft also on hand to mix in. Prior to sustaining his knee injury, Otton made his mark from a fantasy perspective by recording a 59/600/4 receiving line (on 87 targets) over the course of 14 games.

Otton (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Commanders.

Otton is on track to return from a three-game absence following full practice participation Thursday and Friday, although coach Todd Bowles stopped short of promising the tight end will play. Bowles did confirm that Otton is trending in the right direction, per Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site, which means Payne Durham and Devin Culp likely will fall back to minimal roles after making significant contributions to Tampa Bay's passing game over the final few weeks of the regular season.

Otton (knee) practiced fully Thursday.

This marks the first time Otton has been listed as anything other than a DNP or limited on Buccaneers practice reports since showing up with a left knee injury during Week 16 prep. He's missed the last three games as a result, but following up Wednesday's capped walkthrough with a full session one day later puts him on a path to return to action for Sunday night's wild-card game against the Commanders. There's a chance he may share TE reps with Payne Durham and even Devin Culp if the Buccaneers opt to ease Otton back into action.

Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles said Wednesday that Otton (knee) is "trending in the right direction" and would've been a limited participant if the team had held a normal practice Wednesday, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

The Bucs had a walk-through rather than a more strenuous practice, and they'll presumably list Otton as a limited participant on the official injury report Wednesday afternoon/evening. He missed the final three games of the regular season, allowing Payne Durham to step in as the starter while Devin Culp took on some of the passing-down snaps. An every-down player when healthy throughout his NFL career, Otton might have a somewhat lesser role if he makes it back for Sunday's matchup with Washington.

Otton (knee) is inactive for Sunday's Week 18 game against the Saints, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.

Otton will thus miss his third consecutive game as a result of the knee injury. The Buccaneers will enter the postseason as the NFC South champion with a victory over the Saints on Sunday, so the hope will naturally be that Otton is recovered sufficiently to participate in a wild-card matchup next weekend. In the meantime, Payne Durham and Devin Culp will once again serve as the top pass-catching options at tight end for the Buccaneers after combining for a 5-88-1 line in a Week 17 win over the Panthers.

Otton (knee) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Saints.

Otton was a limited practice participant Thursday and Friday but apparently didn't show enough for the Bucs to be confident in his Week 18 availability. The good news for Tampa Bay is that fellow tight ends Payne Durham (quadriceps) and Devin Culp (ribs) both made enough progress throughout the week to avoid injury designations. Durham figures to start and get the most snaps, with Culp subbing in some for passing situations.

Otton (knee) was limited at practice Thursday.

This marks Otton's first on-field work since a limited session on Friday, Dec. 20, so there's a chance he's fighting to make an appearance in the Buccaneers' regular-season final Sunday against the Saints. At the very least, he may have to maintain his activity level Friday in order to be listed as anything more than questionable for that contest. Fellow TE Payne Durham (quadriceps) also was limited Thursday, while rookie Devin Culp (ribs) upgraded from limited to full, so the latter appears as if he could be the biggest beneficiary if either or both of Otton and/or Durham are inhibited or out this weekend.

Otton (knee) didn't participate in Wednesday's practice.

A left knee injury has sidelined Otton the last two games, and a DNP to kick off Week 18 prep isn't exactly a great sign that he'll be available Sunday against the Saints. Payne Durham and Devin Culp have filled in for Otton during that span, but Durham also missed Wednesday's session due to a quadriceps issue, while Culp was limited due to a rib concern. As such, the state of the Buccaneers' tight end group is in flux heading into Sunday's regular-season finale against the Saints.

Coach Todd Bowles said Friday that Otton (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Otton thus will miss a second game in a row due to a left knee injury that has allowed him to practice only once (limited last Friday) over the last two weeks of prep. Payne Durham will take on most of the TE reps for the Buccaneers in Week 17, which amounted to five catches (on seven targets) for 29 yards on a 92 percent snap share this past Sunday at Dallas. Otton will turn his focus to getting healthy enough for a Week 18 matchup with the Saints.

Otton (knee) didn't practice Thursday.

Otton also kicked off last week with back-to-back DNPs before getting back on the field as limited Friday while donning a large brace on his left knee. He was listed as doubtful and then ruled out ahead of this past Sunday's game at Dallas, but it remains to be seen how the Buccaneers tag him ahead of a Week 17 matchup with the Panthers. If Otton is inactive again Sunday, Payne Durham would pick up the slack at tight end for Tampa Bay.

Otton (knee) was listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's estimated injury report.

Otton opened last week as a DNP on the first two practice reports before returning to drills Friday as a limited participant, but he was spotted with a large brace on his left knee during the session. A doubtful designation followed for the tight end, and he proceeded to sit out this past Sunday at Dallas. Otton will have two more opportunities to prove his health this week before the Buccaneers potentially make a ruling on his status ahead of Sunday's game versus the Panthers. Payne Durham will fill in for Otton if the latter is limited or out this weekend.

Otton (knee) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's contest against the Cowboys, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

This was predictable as Otton was listed as doubtful following Friday's final injury report. Given the starting end won't travel with the team to Dallas, Payne Durham, Ko Kieft and Devin Culp will likely act as a positional platoon in an effort to replace Otton's multi-faceted capabilities.

Otton (knee) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Otton returned to practice Friday as a limited participant, using a large brace over his left knee, with Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles telling reporters that he expected the tight end to be a game-time decision Sunday. Things may not have gone as well in practice as Bowles was hoping for, and the Bucs now consider Otton unlikely to play, leaving Payne Durham, Ko Kieft and Devin Culp as candidates to pick up extra snaps at tight end. Durham has been getting the most playing time of the bunch in recent weeks, but he's caught just two passes all season (which is two more than Kieft or Culp).

Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles said Friday that he expects Otton (knee) to be a game-time decision for Sunday's matchup with Dallas, according to The Pewter Report.

Otton handled his usual, near-every-down role in last week's win over the Chargers but then missed practice Wednesday and Thursday. River Wells of Bucs Gameday spotted Otton at practice Friday, albeit with a large brace over his injured left knee. The Buccaneers figure to list their starting tight end as questionable on the final injury report unless he emerges from practice with a setback.

Otton (knee) was a non-participant at Thursday's practice.

Otton has yet to take part in drills this week while donning a knee brace on the side at practice, per Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times. In the event that Otton isn't able to play Sunday in Dallas, offensive coordinator Liam Coen expressed confidence that Payne Durham, Ko Kieft and even rookie seventh-rounder Devin Culp will be able to fill in capably for Otton, according to Greg Auman of Fox Sports. Ultimately, the Buccaneers may make a ruling on Otton's upcoming availability as soon as they post their final Week 16 injury report Friday.

Otton didn't practice Wednesday due to a knee injury.

Since he earned 10-plus targets in three consecutive games from Weeks 7-9, Otton has mustered a 15-179-0 line on 25 targets over the last five games. The downturn in production was aided by Mike Evans' return to the lineup Week 12, but Otton also has just three red-zone targets over the last four games and hasn't reached the end zone in any of them. Otton's health now is a concern as the Buccaneers prepare for Sunday's contest at Dallas.

Otton secured two of three targets for 24 yards in the Buccaneers' 40-17 win over the Chargers on Sunday.

Starting wideouts Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan combined for 14 receptions, 238 yards and three touchdown catches, leaving little else for the rest of Tampa Bay's air attack. That included Otton, who posted his lowest yardage total since Week 6 and tied his second-lowest target tally of the campaign as well. Nevertheless, the third-year tight end remains an important complementary part of the passing game and could see an uptick in work during a favorable Week 16 road matchup against the Cowboys.

Otton brought in three of four targets for 70 yards in the Buccaneers' 28-13 win over the Raiders on Sunday.

The third-year tight end finished with a team-high receiving yardage figure and second in receptions as well. The highlight of Otton's afternoon was a 44-yard reception in the fourth quarter that helped set up the Buccaneers' final touchdown of the game, and the game marked his most productive showing since a Week 9, 77-yard effort against the Chiefs. Otton should continue to be an integral part of the Buccaneers' short-handed passing attack in Week 15 road matchup against the Chargers.

Otton recorded four receptions on seven targets for 20 yards in Sunday's 26-23 overtime win over the Panthers.

Otton saw his role bounceback after earning only three targets in Week 12, as his seven targets were tied for second on the team. However, the good news ends there, as he did little with the opportunity. Otton's longest reception went for just seven yards, and he's now been held to 35 yards or fewer in three straight contests.

Otton brought in one of three targets for 30 yards in the Buccaneers' 30-7 win over the Giants on Sunday.

With Mike Evans back on the field after a three-game absence due to a hamstring injury, Otton saw his workload decrease significantly. The third-year tight end did put together an impressive gain on his one catch, but he's now seen his receiving yardage totals drop over that of the previous game in four consecutive contests. Otton will have the benefit of a favorable matchup when the Bucs travel to face the Panthers in Week 13.

Otton brought in five of eight targets for 35 yards in the Buccaneers' 23-20 loss to the 49ers on Sunday.

Otton's target total led the Buccaneers on the afternoon and he was second in both receptions and receiving yards, but the talented tight end was much more effectively controlled than he had been in the previous three games. Otton had posted a 25-258-3 line on 31 targets in that span, but the 49ers were able to limit him to a long gain of 15 yards Sunday. With Mike Evans (IR, hamstring) believed to have a good chance of returning following the Week 11 bye, Otton could see his targets take at least a slight hit beginning in a Week 12 road matchup against the Giants on Sunday, Nov. 24.

Otton secured eight of 11 targets for 77 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 30-24 overtime loss to the Chiefs on Monday night.

Otton led the Buccaneers across the board in receptions, receiving yards and targets, unsurprising given the Buccaneers were down all of Mike Evans (hamstring), Chris Godwin (IR, ankle) and Jalen McMillan (hamstring). Otton also recorded his fourth touchdown grab of the season on an 11-yard catch early in the third quarter, erasing a 10-7 deficit at the time. Otton now has at least eight catches and double-digit targets in three straight games, and even with a potential return for McMillan in Week 10, the third-year tight end should remain busy against the 49ers.

Otton secured nine of 10 targets for 81 yards and two touchdowns in the Buccaneers' 31-26 loss to the Falcons on Sunday.

Otton led the Buccaneers in receptions, receiving yards and targets, not wholly surprising considering the absences of Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (IR-knee). The third-year tight end recorded his second and third receiving touchdowns of the season on five- and four-yard grabs in the first and fourth quarters, respectively, and he now boasts wide-receiver-like 17-181-2 line on 20 targets over the last pair of contests. Otton could remain similarly busy during a Week 9 road showdown against the Chiefs on Monday night, Nov. 4, considering Godwin is out for the season and Evans isn't expected back until after the Week 11 bye.

Otton should have a good chance for an increase in targets over the next several games thanks to the Buccaneers' short-handed receiver corps, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

The third-year tight end's experience and increasing comfort level in coordinator Liam Coen's offense should certainly be integral in helping the Buccaneers navigate what is expected to be a three-game absence for Mike Evans (hamstring) and the loss of Chris Godwin (ankle) for the remainder of the regular season. Otton had already been coming on in recent weeks following a very slow first two games, posting 26 receptions for 258 yards and a touchdown over his last five contests. Otton recorded a career-best 8-100 line on 10 targets during the Week 7 loss to the Ravens which Evans exited in the first half, and similarly busy days in the weeks ahead could be forthcoming when also factoring in the many short and intermediate targets that Godwin leaves behind.

Otton brought in eight of 10 targets for 100 yards in the Buccaneers' 41-31 loss to the Ravens on Monday night. He also fumbled once but recovered.

Otton finished as the Buccaneers' leader in receptions, receiving yards and targets, reaching the lofty numbers thanks in no small part to Mike Evans' first-half exit with a hamstring injury. Otton's reception and receiving yardage totals were both regular-season career highs, while his target tally matched the high-water mark he'd established in Week 13 of his 2022 rookie campaign. Otton could be set to garner a similar amount of Baker Mayfield's attention moving forward, considering Evans' injury and the fact Chris Godwin was carted off with his left lower leg in an air cast late in Monday's loss.

Otton secured two of six targets for 15 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 51-27 win over the Saints on Sunday. He also recovered a fumble.

In what was his least productive game since Week 2, Otton found a way to salvage his fantasy day with his first touchdown of the campaign. The third-year tight end also logged his third-highest target total of the campaign, so despite the downturn in production, it's encouraging Otton remains a fairly consistent subject of Baker Mayfield's attention heading into a Week 7 home showdown with the Ravens next Monday night.

Otton brought in three of four targets for 44 yards in the Buccaneers' 36-30 loss to the Falcons on Thursday night.

The third-year tight end finished second in receptions and third in both receiving yardage and targets on the night for the Buccaneers. Otton has firmly put a slow start to the season behind him, recording a 16-143 line on 21 targets over the last three games. Otton should continue serving in a complementary pass-catching role in a Week 6 road matchup against the Saints.

Otton secured six of nine targets for 52 yards in the Buccaneers' 33-16 win over the Eagles on Sunday.

After opening the season with one catch for five yards on four targets over his first two games, Otton has emerged as a key option in the air attack over the subsequent pair of contests. The third-year tight end has generated a 13-99 line on 17 looks from Baker Mayfield in that span, and Sunday, he tied Chris Godwin for second in targets. Otton's role may still fluctuate on occasion, but he certainly appears to be finding his niche within coordinator Liam Coen's offense heading into Thursday night's road showdown against the Falcons.

Otton secured seven of eight targets for 47 yards in the Buccaneers' 26-7 loss to the Broncos on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

Otton was the surprise leader in receptions for the Buccaneers while checking in second to Chris Godwin in both receiving yards and targets. The third-year tight end had only recorded one catch for five yards on four targets through his first two games, but he became a frequent short-area target for Baker Mayfield on Sunday with the veteran signal-caller frequently under duress. However, Otton's fumble, which came at the Broncos' 10-yard line with 3:49 remaining, essentially snuffed out any chance of a comeback for the Bucs, marring an otherwise productive day. Otton will hope the uptick in production isn't a one-game outlier when the Eagles come calling for a Week 4 home matchup.

Otton failed to bring in either of his two targets in the Buccaneers' 20-16 win over the Lions on Sunday.

The third-year tight end had also seen two targets in Week 1 and had recorded one catch for five yards, but he had an even quieter day Sunday. Otton played on all 47 snaps from scrimmage as well, so there wasn't any drop in playing time to help explain the lack of involvement. However, it's worth noting Baker Mayfield put up just 19 attempts Sunday, so perhaps Otton will see an uptick in opportunity during a Week 3 home matchup against the Broncos.

Otton secured one of two targets for five yards in the Buccaneers' 37-20 win over the Commanders on Sunday.

Most of the Buccaneers' incumbent skill-position assets enjoyed productive days in their first game operating in new coordinator Liam Coen's offense, but Otton was a notable exception. The third-year tight end's modest target count over 52 snaps from scrimmage was particularly disappointing, but given Coen's typically heavy use of two-tight-end sets, Otton's downturn could quickly end in a Week 2 road showdown against the Lions.

Otton started Friday's 24-14 preseason win over the Dolphins but wasn't targeted.

Otton played only the first drive along with the rest of the first-team offense. The Buccaneers went with three wide receivers, one running back and one tight end throughout the drive, showcasing the personnel grouping that Tampa Bay will likely use the majority of the time come the regular season, which kicks off Sept. 8 against the Commanders. That heavy reliance on 11 personnel stems in part from the lack of quality tight end options on the roster behind Otton, who exceeded a 90-percent snap share in every regular-season game last year.

Otton is expected to fill his most versatile role yet in new coordinator Liam Coen's offense this coming season, Brianna Dix of the team's official site reports.

The third-year pro has already made his mark over his first two seasons, recording a combined 89-846-6 line across 33 regular-season games and adding 17 receptions for 212 yards and a touchdown in three career postseason contests. However, Otton could be in store for his most productive campaign yet, given Coen's offense will focus heavily on shifts and motion to get its playmakers into advantageous matchups. While the Buccaneers operated out of a two-tight-end set a relatively modest 28.3 percent of the time in 2023, training camp practices this summer have seen the offense operate with more diversified personnel groupings and Otton lining up in more spots along the formation than he did a year ago in Dave Canales' scheme.

Otton secured five of eight targets for 65 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 31-23 divisional-round loss to the Lions on Sunday.

On the heels of a career-best showing in the wild-card win over the Eagles, Otton put together a solid encore Sunday that included the Buccaneers' second-most receptions and receiving yards on the afternoon. The second-year tight end also tied for second in targets and hauled in a two-yard scoring grab just before halftime for his first career postseason touchdown. Ottonm who'll head into the third year of his rookie contract in 2024, put together a relatively ordinary 47-455-4 line across 17 regular-season games; however, his combined 13-154-1 tally in two playoff games serves as proof he's capable of functioning as more than just a short-area, complementary option in the team's passing game.

Otton brought in eight of 11 targets for 89 yards in the Buccaneers' 32-9 wild-card win over the Eagles on Monday night.

Otton was the surprise leader in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the night, and by a wide margin at that, arguably the single-most surprising individual performance in Tampa Bay's dominant win. Otton's totals were all career highs as well, as he continuously exploited Philadelphia's linebackers and safeties. The second-year pro could be busy again in Sunday's divisional-round battle against the Lions as well, considering Detroit also had plenty of trouble defending the tight end position this just-completed regular season.

Otton secured two of three targets for 30 yards in the Buccaneers' 9-0 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

While Otton's numbers look unremarkable on the surface, they were actually noteworthy when considered in the context of how quiet a day it was for the Buccaneers' air attack and the fact Otton had failed to clear 16 receiving yards in four of the previous five contests. Otton now will look to make an impact in Monday night's wild-card matchup against the Eagles after producing a 4-58-0 line on seven targets in a wild-card loss to the Cowboys last season as a rookie.

Otton secured two of six targets for 10 yards in the Buccaneers' 23-13 loss to the Saints o Sunday.

Otton tied for the team lead in targets with Chase Edmonds but did little with them, leading to his fourth sub-20-yard outing in the last five contests. Otton's sub-standard production down the stretch has made him a virtual fantasy non-factor heading into the regular-season finale against the Panthers.

Otton secured his only target for seven yards in the Buccaneers' 30-12 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.

Otton saw a notable downturn in receiving yardage after producing a 2-44 line in Week 15, with Sunday's tally serving as his second lowest of the season. The second-year tight end is still the primary pass-catching option at the position and played a season-high 71 snaps against the Jaguars, but rookie Payne Durham did outpace him in the victory by recording a 25-yard grab on his only catch.

Otton brought in both targets for 44 yards in the Buccaneers' 34-20 win over the Packers on Sunday.

The second-year tight end contributed a pair of 22-yard receptions -- both coming on a late third-quarter drive that culminated in a Buccaneers touchdown -- showing more downfield chops than in his typical shorter-area role. With Sunday's production, Otton tied the 42 catches he posted as a rookie in 2022, and he set a new career high by pushing season yardage total to 408 yards. Otton only had Week 14's two receptions for 16 yards and a touchdown in the two games prior to Sunday, so his boost in yardage was a welcome sight for fantasy managers rolling with him in any playoff contests. The 2022 fourth-round pick next takes aim at the Jaguars in a Week 16 home matchup.

Otton brought in two of five targets for 16 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 29-25 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

Otton tied multiple teammates for second on the team in receptions, and he was also on the receiving end of an 11-yard touchdown pass from Baker Mayfield with 31 seconds remaining that turned out to be the game-winning score. Otton had been blanked altogether in Week 13 against the Panthers, but Sunday's trip to the end zone, his fourth of the season, helped make up for it to an extent on a critical week of the fantasy season.

Otton did not draw a target over 61 snaps in Sunday's 21-18 win over the Panthers.

Otton was blanked on the stat sheet for only the second time of his career, the first having come in his first NFL game against the Cowboys back in Week 1 of last season. The catchless performance came out of nowhere and is certainly an outlier, considering Otton had recorded at least four receptions in five of the previous six contests. The second-year pro should have a very good chance of atoning in a Week 14 road matchup against a Falcons team that's allowed a robust 75-760-3 line to tight ends over 12 games.

Otton secured all four targets for 45 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-20 loss to the Colts on Sunday.

The second-year tight end finished tied with Trey Palmer for second on the team in receptions and with Chris Godwin for the same slotting in receiving yards. Otton now has back-to-back four-catch tallies and at least that many receptions in five of the last six contests overall, giving him a serviceable floor heading into a Week 13 home matchup against the Panthers.

Otton caught four of five targets for 49 yards in Sunday's 27-14 loss to the 49ers.

The yardage actually led the Buccaneers on the day, and it was Otton's second-best total of the season. The second-year tight end is beginning to develop some consistency, catching at least four passes in four of the last five games, but he remains a secondary option in a fairly low-upside Tampa Bay passing game.

Otton brought in two of three targets for 10 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-6 win over the Titans on Sunday.

Otton finished tied with Rachaad White and Trey Palmer for third on the team in receptions, but his numbers were a noteworthy disappointment for fantasy managers banking on a successful encore to his season-best 6-70-2 line in Week 9 against the Texans. Otton's production is bound to continue fluctuating due to game script and the involvement of top wideouts Mike Evans and Chris Godwin as well as White, who's proven to be one of the best pass-catching backs in the league during his second campaign.

Otton secured six of nine targets for 70 yards and two touchdowns in the Buccaneers' 39-37 loss to the Texans on Sunday.

Otton was the surprising leader in receptions and targets on the afternoon, exploiting a Texans defense that had been vulnerable to tight ends in the first half of the season. The second-year pro found the end zone from three and 14 yards out for his first two scores since Week 4 against the Saints, and he's now amassed an impressive 15 receptions on 21 targets over his last three games. Otton will look to carry over his burgeoning chemistry with Baker Mayfield into a Week 10 home matchup against the Titans.

Otton secured four of six targets for 27 yards in the Buccaneers' 24-18 loss to the Bills on Thursday night.

Otton put together a reasonably serviceable performance from a PPR standpoint, although his yardage was once again underwhelming. The second-year tight end's 43-yard tally in Week 7 against the Falcons qualifies as his season high, leaving him with capped fantasy value heading into a Week 9 road matchup against the Texans.

Otton brought in five of six targets for 43 yards in the Buccaneers' 16-13 loss to the Falcons on Sunday.

The second-year pro was second behind multiple teammates in receptions, and he also produced a season-high yardage total. Otton's catch total was also his second best of the campaign, and although he remains a complementary, short-area option for Baker Mayfield (knee), the clear-cut top pass-catching option at tight end for the Bucs does have decent utility in deeper full-PPR formats.

Otton brought in one of two targets for 15 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-6 loss to the Lions on Sunday.

Otton's catch and target totals tied for season lows, while his yardage total marked his third straight under the 20-mark. The second-year tight end appears to have a lesser role in coordinator Dave Canales' offensive scheme compared to that of predecessor Byron Leftwich's, but Otton has at least logged over 50 snaps in four of his first five games, including three tallies over 60.

Otton brought in three of four targets for 13 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 26-9 win over the Saints on Sunday.

The second-year tight end worked himself free for his first touchdown of the season, a four-yard grab in traffic just past the midway point of the second quarter. Otton has mostly been a complementary option in the air attack as expected -- he's recorded three receptions or fewer in three of four games -- but he could enjoy a larger role in a Week 6 matchup against the Lions following a Week 5 bye if No. 1 wideout Mike Evans is unable to suit up due to the hamstring injury that caused his early exit Sunday.

Otton brought in one of two targets for 16 yards in the Buccaneers' 25-11 loss to the Eagles on Monday night.

Otton was coming off a solid six-catch, 41-yard effort versus the vulnerable Bears defense, but he garnered much less of Baker Mayfield's attention in an appreciably tougher matchup. The second-year tight end does have at least one catch in each of the first three games, but he remains a clear complementary option in a passing attack that still figures to revolve around Mike Evans and Chris Godwin -- and feature plenty of short passes to Rachaad White out of the backfield -- on the overwhelming majority of weeks this season.

Otton secured all six targets for 41 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-17 win over the Bears on Sunday.

After a quiet two-catch opener, Otton bounced back to co-lead the team in catches while checking in second in targets. The second-year tight end worked relatively near the line of scrimmage as his final line implies, but the type of volume he saw Sunday is one that fantasy managers can likely count on in most games this season as the sure-handed Otton develops into a trusted underneath option for Baker Mayfield.

Otton secured two of three targets for 19 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-17 win over the Vikings on Sunday.

The promising second-year tight end was a clear complementary option to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin in the air attack, but that certainly wasn't surprising as Baker Mayfield leaned heavily on the talented duo in his first start. Otton should have a steady role with occasional opportunities for big games this season when defensive attention is particularly focused on his productive pair of teammates, and he is the clear top pass-catching option at the position. Otton will aim to boost his production across the board in what shapes up as a favorable Week 2 home matchup versus the Bears.

Otton wasn't targeted during Saturday's 26-20 preseason win over the Ravens but carried once for 12 yards.

Otton's sole contribution ironically came on the ground, but he flashed his speed by taking the ball up the right sideline for a solid gain to the Ravens' 22-yard line on the Buccaneers' first touchdown drive. The second-year tight end is expected to play a significant role in an offense that projects to feature plenty of play-action passing, following an impressive rookie campaign he finished with a 42-391-2 line over 16 games and a four-catch, 58-yard effort in the wild-card loss to the Cowboys.

Otton secured both targets for 17 yards in the Buccaneers' 13-6 preseason win over the Jets on Saturday night. He also recovered a fumble.

Otton had logged 14 snaps against the Steelers in the preseason opener but hadn't seen a target. The second-year tight end broke the ice Saturday and remains on track to serve as the clear-cut top pass-catching option at tight end to open the 2023 season.

Otton, who heading into the 2023 season as the No. 1 tight end, is excited about the diversity the position enjoys in new coordinator Dave Canales' offense, Brianna Dix of the team's official site reports.

The second-year pro, who's the top pass-catching option at his position, will be playing in a scheme that is projected to feature an emphasis on the ground attack and plenty of play action off of that. That's expected to open up some more opportunities for a player the caliber of Otton, who's both a solid blocker and has also already demonstrated an ability to find soft spots in coverage. The projected increase in the use of two-tight-end sets -- which is based on how frequently the team Canales served as quarterbacks coach for a year ago, the Seahawks, deployed that formation -- should also be a significant benefit for Otton. Seattle ran 12 personnel on 29.5 percent of plays in 2022, a notable increase over the 17.4 percent clip the Buccaneers did under then-coordinator Byron Leftwich.

Otton is joined on the tight end depth chart by rookie fifth-round pick Payne Durham, who recorded 56 receptions for 560 yards and eight touchdowns during his senior 2022 campaign at Purdue, Brianna Dix of the team's official site reports.

Otton was a first-year hit in 2022 while splitting time with veteran Cameron Brate, progressively earning Tom Brady's trust and finishing with 42 receptions, tops among rookie tight ends across the league. Brate is no longer on the roster, but Otton now stands to face competition for targets from another young position mate with receiving prowess in Durham, who boasts a large catch radius that could make him an especially good fit while working with either Baker Mayfield or Kyle Trask, two quarterbacks for which accuracy may not always be a strong suit. Nevertheless, Otton is expected to serve as the clear leader in snaps at the position thanks in part to his underrated blocking ability and knack for moving the chains -- 19 of his receptions in 2022 went for first downs.

Otton brought in four of seven targets for 58 yards in the Buccaneers' 31-14 wild-card loss to the Cowboys on Monday night. He finished the 2022 regular season with 42 receptions for 391 yards and two touchdowns on 65 targets across 16 games.

The rookie tight end put a productive cap on his first NFL season with Monday night's showing, which saw him check in third in receiving yards and fourth in catches and targets on the night for the Buccaneers. Otton recorded just one catch for four yards on two targets over his first two NFL games, but he began expanding his profile in the offense beginning in Week 4 against the Chiefs and posted multiple receptions in all but three of the final 14 contests of the campaign. Otton certainly was afforded enough of a platform to prove he can serve as the top receiving option at the position, but it remains to be seen who he'll be catching passes from in 2023 with Tom Brady not expected back in Tampa Bay.

Otton secured his only target for five yards in the Buccaneers' 30-17 loss to the Falcons on Sunday.

The rookie tight end saw just 19 snaps from scrimmage as head coach Todd Bowles limited the play of his starters. Otton recorded multiple receptions in 11 of his last 13 regular-season games, but he'll head into next Monday night's wild-card matchup against the Cowboys not having topped 28 receiving yards since Week 10.

Otton caught two of six targets for 17 yards in Sunday's 30-24 win over the Panthers.

Otton played 68 of the Buccaneers' 78 offensive snaps Sunday, the most of any Tampa Bay pass catcher. Despite seeing the field for all but 10 snaps, the rookie tight end could not get much going in the contest. Assuming his steady usage continues, Otton will look to have a bounce back performance in Week 18 as the Buccaneers visit the Falcons to close out the regular season.

Otton (quadriceps) practiced fully Thursday, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

Otton opened Week 17 prep with a limited session Wednesday due to a quad injury, but it didn't stop him from getting back to all activity one day later. He'll thus continue to serve as Tampa Bay's top receiving tight end Sunday versus the Panthers, which so far has resulted in a 39-369-2 line on 58 targets for the rookie fourth-round pick in 14 games this season.

Otton was a limited practice participant Wednesday due to a quadriceps injury.

Otton has been a regular in the Buccaneers offense when healthy in his rookie season, playing more than 50 percent of snaps in 13 of 14 appearances. His target count has been all over the place, though, with a range of zero to 10 over the last five games, a stretch in which he compiled a 13-88-1 line on 23 targets. With a health concern in tow, Otton's status will continue to be monitored as the week goes on ahead of Sunday's NFC South showdown with the Panthers.

Otton brought in two of seven targets for 12 yards in the Buccaneers' 19-16 overtime win over the Cardinals on Sunday night.

Otton notably checked in third in targets on the night for the Buccaneers, but his inefficiency in corralling those looks led to a lackluster fantasy night. The rookie also logged a whopping 65 snaps overall, leaving position mate's Cameron Brate's eight plays from scrimmage in the dust. Otton should continue to enjoy a robust role in a key Week 17 divisional clash against the Panthers.

Otton secured his only target for 20 yards in the Buccaneers' 34-23 loss to the Bengals on Sunday.

Otton logged a robust 48 snaps, so his meager volume was particularly perplexing on a day when Tom Brady threw for 312 yards. However, with 19 more plays from scrimmage than veteran position mate Cameron Brate, Otton still appears to be the top pass-catching option at the position going into a Week 16 Christmas Night road matchup against the Cardinals.

Otton brought in four of five targets for 28 yards in the Buccaneers' 35-7 loss to the 49ers on Sunday.

Otton once again logged a solid target tally despite the return of Cameron Brate from a one-game absence due to an illness. However, it was a quiet day for the Buccaneers passing game overall against the 49ers' suffocating defense, one where no pass catcher recorded more than 54 yards (Chris Godwin). Otton has 10 receptions overall in the last two games, giving him a solid floor heading into a Week 15 home matchup against the Bengals.

Otton secured six of 10 targets for 28 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 17-16 win over the Saints on Monday night.

The rookie tight end tied for second on the team in receptions was the runner-up in targets as well, but the most noteworthy part of his night was his one-yard touchdown grab with three minutes remaining that made it a one-possession game. Otton once again had the No. 1 tight end role to himself with Cameron Brate's (illness) fourth absence in the last six games, which led to a new career high in targets for the 2022 fourth-round pick. Otton will aim to build on the solid performance in a Week 14 road battle versus the 49ers.

Otton did not draw a target over 36 snaps during the Buccaneers' 23-17 overtime loss to the Browns on Sunday.

The complete lack of involvement was a shock considering Otton had recorded multiple catches in seven straight games and had failed to make at least one reception in every game except for the Week 1 win over the Cowboys. Otton still led the tight end group in snaps and should have a opportunity to bounce back against the Saints in the Week 13 Monday night divisional clash.

Otton brought in all three targets for 35 yards in the Buccaneers' 21-16 win over the Seahawks on Sunday.

Despite the return of Cameron Brate from a neck injury, Otton still outsnapped his teammate by a 46-34 count and also logged and additional target. Otton appears to have Tom Brady's trust -- particularly after hauling in a game-winning touchdown against the Rams in Week 9 -- and the transition from Brate to him as the top pass-catching option is essentially unfolding. Otton's next opportunity to continue securing his grip on an already solid role comes in a Week 12 road matchup against the Browns following a Week 11 bye.

Otton caught five of six targets for 68 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 16-13 win over the Rams.

The rookie tight end was quiet most of the game, but he emerged as Tom Brady's favorite target in the fourth quarter, hauling in a 28-yard pass to begin the Bucs' final possession before capping it with a one-yard game-winning TD with just nine seconds left on the clock. Otton has seen at least five targets in all four games Cameron Brate (neck) has missed this season, and the trust he's earning from Brady could allow him to retain a significant role even if Brate is healthy for a Week 10 clash with the Seahawks in Germany.

Otton brought in two of five targets for 15 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-22 loss to the Ravens on Thursday night.

The rookie tight end drew another start with Cameron Brate (neck) out of action, but he couldn't parlay the opportunity into the same level of production he'd enjoyed in a pair of previous contests with an expanded role. Otton logged a robust 56 snaps overall, so the inefficient night certainly wasn't attributable to a lack of playing time. Otton has showed plenty of promise as a pass catcher, however, so even if Brate is back for the Week 9 home matchup against the Rams a week from Sunday, the 2022 fourth-round pick should still see a solid amount of playing time.

Otton is expected to serve as the Buccaneers' top tight end Thursday against the Ravens with Cameron Brate (neck) listed as out for the contest.

Brate will be sidelined for the third time in four games, setting Otton up another starting opportunity. While playing north of 50 percent of the snaps on offense in each of the Bucs' last four contests, Otton has proven to be a useful short-yardage target for quarterback Tom Brady. In those games, Otton is averaging 3.8 receptions for 39.8 yards on 4.8 targets.

Otton brought in four of five targets for 64 yards in the Buccaneers' 21-3 loss to the Panthers on Sunday.

Otton finished with the second-highest yardage total of the day for the Buccaneers' pass catchers as he drew a start for Cameron Brate (neck). The rookie has made good use of both his starting opportunities thus far -- he also posted a 6-43 line on seven targets in Week 5 when Brate was out with a concussion. The rookie may slowly be putting himself in position to take over the top role irrespective of Brate's status, and he could be in line for another game in that spot with Tampa Bay having a quick turnaround for a Week 8 home matchup against the Ravens.

Otton brought in two of three targets for 23 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-18 loss to the Steelers on Sunday.

The rookie tight end went back to a timeshare role at tight end to open the game, as Cameron Brate had been deemed healthy enough to return from his concussion. However, Brate suffered a head/neck injury that forced him to be stretchered off after 32 snaps, leading to Otton assuming the lead pass-catching role at the position the rest of the way. Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports that Brate's injury has now officially been diagnosed as a neck sprain and there are no associated neurological issues, but there's seemingly a good chance the veteran sits out the Week 7 road matchup against the Panthers, at minimum, opening up more opportunity for Otton in the process.

Otton brought in six of seven targets for 43 yards in the Buccaneers' 21-15 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

The rookie drew expanded opportunity with Cameron Brate (concussion) sidelined, and he was able to build his 3-29 line for Week 4 with another set of career highs. Otton's performance over the last two games offers an encouraging glimpse at his upside, and it could well earn him much more of a steady, larger role going forward.

Otton secured three of four targets for 29 yards in the Buccaneers' 41-31 loss to the Chiefs on Sunday night.

Otton set new career highs across the board after logging his first pro reception in Week 3. The rookie's snaps have encouragingly increased in each of his first three games, topping out at a robust 43 on Sunday night. Otton could continue to see his role expand in a Week 5 home matchup against the Falcons.

Otton (personal) was not listed on the Buccaneers' injury report Wednesday.

Otton appears ready to return after he missed Tampa Bay's loss to the Packers in Week 3 due to personal reasons. The rookie tight end recorded one reception for four yards on two targets while playing 63 offensive snaps over the first two weeks of the season, though he figures to see increased targets if wideouts Chris Godwin (hamstring), Julio Jones (knee), Russell Gage (hamstring) and Breshad Perriman (knee/hamstring) are sidelined in Week 4.

Otton (personal) is inactive for Sunday's Week 3 game against the Packers, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

As expected, the rookie tight end will not be available after missing practice all week. In his absence, fellow rookie Ko Kieft and veteran Kyle Rudolph, the latter garnering active status for the first time this season, will serve as complementary options behind top tight end Cameron Brate.

Otton (personal) is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Packers.

Otton didn't practice all week due to personal reasons and will likely be sidelined for at least one game. If he's ruled out, Ko Kieft and Kyle Rudolph would be candidates for increased roles behind Cameron Brate.

Otton brought in one of two targets for four yards in the Buccaneers' 20-10 win over the Saints on Sunday.

The rookie tight end thus got on the board with his first pro reception after not drawing a target in the opener. The Buccaneers' depleted receiving corps helped facilitate a bit more opportunity for Otton in the air attack, and he also saw his snap count bump up to 38 after he logged 30 against Dallas in Week 1. Otton's active status over veteran Kyle Rudolph over the first two games is encouraging as well, and with Tampa Bay now potentially down all three of Mike Evans (suspension), Chris Godwin (hamstring) and Julio Jones (knee) for a Week 3 showdown with the Packers, Otton could see another role expansion in that contest.

Otton logged 30 snaps on offense but did not see a target during the Buccaneers' 19-3 win over the Cowboys in Week 1.

The rookie did at least see a solid amount of action, playing just under half (48%) of the offensive snaps while logging an additional 12 on special teams. Notably, both Otton and fellow first-year tight end Ko Kieft garnered active status over veteran Kyle Rudolph, but that may not necessarily be indicative of what can be counted on from a game-to-game basis for the time being.

Otton secured two of three targets for 37 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-10 preseason loss to the Colts on Saturday night.

Otton's yardage total was second only to that of fellow tight end J.J. Howland's on the night for the Buccaneers. Otton's night included an impressive 30-yard reception in connection with Blaine Gabbert to open the second quarter, a play that showcased the Washington product's downfield chops. While he has plenty of potential, Otton still appears set for a backup role behind the veteran duo of Cameron Brate and Kyle Rudolph to open the season.

Otton logged 26 snaps from scrimmage and another 13 on special teams during the Buccaneers' 13-3 preseason loss to the Titans on Saturday night but did not log any offensive statistics.

Otton's quiet night was a disappointment after he'd at least drawn a pair of targets and generated a 1-10 line during the preseason-opening loss to the Dolphins. The rookie tight end did at least get some solid reps in on both offense and special teams, and considering the spotty quarterback play the Buccaneers endured versus Tennessee, the blank stat sheet is at least somewhat understandable.

Otton brought in one of two targets for 10 yards in the Buccaneers' 26-24 preseason loss to the Dolphins on Saturday night.

The rookie tight end generated only modest production, but Otton was able to log his first game action in approximately 10 months after seeing his final college season end early due to an ankle injury. Otton should continue to log ample playing time over the final two preseason games as he aims to secure a solid role behind veterans Kyle Rudolph and Cameron Brate to open the regular season.

Otton made a strong impression as both a receiver and blocker in Sunday's practice, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

The highlights were plentiful for the rookie Sunday, starting with several noteworthy catches that included an over-the-shoulder grab in the left corner of the end zone and a leaping reception on a seam route in a goal-line period. Otton also saw reps split out wide and in the slot with Cameron Brate receiving a veteran's day off, Chris Godwin (knee) once again limited to individual drills, and Mike Evans (hamstring) still sidelined. Dix noted the Washington product also rounded out his day with several key chip blocks at the end of the offensive line and emphasized after practice that he focuses heavily on his blocking responsibilities in addition to his pass-catching duties.

Otton, who was medically cleared from the ankle injury that cut short his final college season just before training camp, has been able to practice each day thus far after missing all offseason on-field work, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Otton studied the Buccaneers offense in the classroom and through sideline observation throughout the offseason, but getting live reps has naturally been a welcome new phase in his acclimation. The rookie fourth-round pick is slated to rotate in with veterans Cameron Brate and Kyle Rudolph and also put in plenty of time on special teams this season, but his athleticism could certainly help him carve out meaningful snaps as the season unfolds if he proves a quick study in the offense and pass-protection schemes.

Otton (ankle) has received medical clearance Thursday, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Otton missed rookie minicamp while recovering from ankle surgery, but the 2022 third-round pick will be on the field when Tampa Bay's training camp kicks off July 27. The Buccaneers recently signed veteran tight end Kyle Rudolph in the wake of Rob Gronkowski's retirement, who in addition to Cameron Brate could provide Otton with strong competition for Year 1 snaps.

Otton (ankle) could see a boost in his overall opportunity in the wake of Rob Gronkowski's retirement, Joey Knight of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

The rookie will first have to demonstrate his surgically repaired ankle is back to full health during training camp, but assuming that does come to pass, Otton should have an opportunity to make a mark relatively early. Knight does point out the Buccaneers are likely to sign one of several veteran tight ends still on the market as insurance, but if Otton proves a quick study in the offense and pass-protection schemes, it's certainly conceivable he garners more snaps than originally planned with no dominant option at the top of the depth chart.

Otton (ankle) won't participate in on-field work at rookie minicamp, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

The rookie fourth-round pick received medical clearance in April following season-ending surgery, but the Bucs will play it safe and keep him off the practice field for now. Otton currently falls somewhere behind Cameron Brate on the depth chart, with both moving down a slot if Rob Gronkowski decides to play another season.

The Buccaneers selected Otton in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, 106th overall.

Otton becomes the first player off the board for Day 3. The tight end out of Washington is a solid value for Tampa Bay, which was in the market at that position with Rob Gronkowski's status uncertain and O.J. Howard now in Buffalo. Otton missed four games as a senior, two of which were due to an ankle injury that also prevented him from testing at the combine and the Washington pro day. Still, Otton is a smooth pass catcher who caught 91 of 124 targets for 1,026 yards and nine scores in his collegiate career. However, at 247 pounds, Otton's blocking could be an issue at the next level.