Bucs Camp Studs And Duds: 8/9

Key Points:

• The Tampa Bay Buccaneers held their final practice in Tampa before traveling to face the Jets for joint practices and their preseason opener, marking their first game test of the season.
• Standout performers included RB Kenny Gainwell, who showcased his dynamic receiving skills; rookie WR Ted Hurst, who made impressive catches demonstrating potential as an "X" receiver; and veteran WR Chris Godwin Jr., who remains a reliable playmaker in the offense.
• Defensive highlights featured OLB David Walker, who continued his strong pass-rushing performance with a would-be sack and increased reps with the first and second teams, and CB Ayden Garnes, who impressed with multiple pass breakups and is likely to make the 53-man roster.
• Underperformers included WR Eric Rivers Jr., who has struggled to create separation and make plays amid strong competition, RG Cody Mauch, who showed rust returning from injury with difficulty maintaining his footing, and OT Ben Chukwuma, who faced challenges containing pass rushers despite his developmental promise.
• The practice underscored an offense coming alive and a defense that remained aggressive in pressuring the quarterback, setting the stage for the upcoming preseason challenges.