RESOLVING THE LEDGER
This is one outlet's own report from Yahoo Sports — the article as it was filed.
Booger McFarland believes the Buccaneers are the best team in the NFC South if they can stay healthy in 2026.
Former Buccaneers Super Bowl champion and current ESPN analyst Booger McFarland believes Tampa Bay is still the team to beat in the NFC South heading into the 2026 season.
Speaking on ESPN, McFarland didn't hesitate when discussing the division.
"I think the Bucs are the best team in the NFC South," McFarland said.
However, he also pointed to one factor that could determine whether Tampa Bay can live up to those expectations.
"They have got to stay healthy, that's No. 1," McFarland said.
McFarland also acknowledged the challenge of replacing future Hall of Fame wide receiver Mike Evans, who departed in free agency after spending his entire career in Tampa Bay.
"They are going to miss Mike Evans," McFarland said.
Even with Evans gone, McFarland believes the Buccaneers have one of the league's biggest strengths in protecting quarterback Baker Mayfield.
"They have one of, if not the top three offensive lines in the league," McFarland said.
That unit is anchored by All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs and veteran right tackle Luke Goedeke, while Graham Barton enters his third season at center. Tampa Bay also returns Cody Mauch at right guard and Ben Bredeson at left guard, giving the Buccaneers continuity up front despite the changes at wide receiver.
If the offensive line continues to perform at an elite level and Tampa Bay avoids the injury issues that derailed its 2025 campaign, McFarland believes the Buccaneers have what it takes to reclaim the NFC South crown.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Former Bucs Super Bowl champion makes bold statement about the team
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