How Jalon Daniels’ mobility could change the Bucs offense

The Buccaneers obviously do not want to be without Baker Mayfield, but now that Jalon Daniels is forced into the starting lineup, Tampa Bay has an opportunity to show an entirely different version of its offense. What makes the rookie intriguing is what he can create with his legs and how that ability could force defenses to prepare for something the Bucs have not consistently had at quarterback.

Daniels was a legitimate dual threat during his six seasons at Kansas. He appeared in 49 games and finished his college career with 1,445 rushing yards and 23 rushing touchdowns. Those 23 scores tied the Kansas record for career rushing touchdowns by a quarterback. He also became just the second player in school history to surpass 10,000 yards of total offense. His best rushing season came in 2022 when he ran for 425 yards and seven touchdowns in only nine games. He followed that with 439 rushing yards and six touchdowns in 2024 before adding another 404 yards and four scores during his final season. Tampa Bay can incorporate designed quarterback runs, read option concepts, and run-pass options that force edge defenders to make a decision on every snap. Instead of immediately crashing toward Bucky Irving or another running back, defenders have to respect the possibility that Daniels will keep the ball and get outside.