As anticipation builds up with training camp on the horizon, eyes will be on how the Bucs 2025 draft class looks on the field. While they have been practicing throughout the offseason, it will be their first time putting on the pads and truly getting after it at the AdventHealth Training Center.

One immediately thinks of wide receivers Emeka Egbuka and Tez Johnson, cornerbacks Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish, as well as undrafted rookie safety Shilo Sanders and defensive tackle Desmond Watson. Each will garner plenty of eyeballs as they fight for starting jobs and spots on the 53-man roster.

Among others, center Jake Majors is another name to watch. After Tampa Bay lost Robert Hainsey, the backup center position is one that is up for grabs. Based on his experience and background, Majors is someone to know.

Bucs Already Impressed With C Jake Majors

In recent seasons, the Bucs have had success perusing through hundreds of undrafted free agents and finding gems. Think defensive back Christian Izien, running back Sean Tucker, wide receiver Rakim Jarrett, safety Kaevon Merriweather, and outside linebacker Markees Watts. Each has contributed at times and added crucial depth on the roster.

Jake Majors is up next and has a real shot to make the team.

Bucs C Jake Majors – Photo by: USA Today

From the start, head coach Todd Bowles has liked what he has seen from Majors.

“He’s been very smart,” Bowles said. “He’s picked up the system pretty [well]. He understands the blocking scheme. We like what we see right now, but again, when we get in pads, the linemen usually show out a little bit more.”

OTAs and mandatory mini-camp is far from true football games when the intensity is the highest. Just ask right tackle Luke Goedeke.

For Majors, he not only “majored” in business management during his time at Texas, but he was educated on being a center after starting 57 consecutive games at the pivot for the Longhorns. That 57-game run began at the end of 2020 and went through the 2024 season.

That stretch was a true test of durability.

Texas C Jake Majors – Photo by: USA Today

“I put a lot of process and time into my body,” Majors said back at the 2025 NFL Combine. “Playing 57 games is kind of unheard of and to say that I was able to do that, I think that just shows how durable I am and how willing I am to be out there on the field with my teammates.”

Quarterback Baker Mayfield has seen the work Majors has done and understands the responsibilities and hard work it takes.

“I think Jake has done a really good job,” Mayfield said. “This offense [demands] a lot of the center, mentally, and obviously physically, blocking those big boys up front. He’s done a really good job of handling the mental aspect of it.”

Jake Majors’ Experience And IQ Will Aid His Development In Bucs OL Room

Jake Majors’ calling card is experience. His ability to handle protections and communicate with his fellow offensive linemen will serve him well as he acclimates to the NFL. Being apart of a Bucs offensive line hailed as one of the best in the business helps, too.

Texas C Jake Majors – Photo by: USA Today

Tampa Bay has recently developed recent top draft picks (Luke Goedeke and Cody Mauch) into plus pieces. Even a journeyman like Justin Skule handled the swing tackle responsibilities well and parlayed that into a free-agent deal with the Vikings.

When it comes to current picture upfront, all five starters are set. 2024 sixth-round pick Elijah Klein has developed behind the scenes and learning multiple positions as he aims to be the sixth offensive lineman. After re-signing left guard Sua Opeta and signing swing tackle Charlie Heck during free agency, that is already eight big guys who are likely making the team. That leaves a spot or two up for grabs between Majors, offensive tackle Ben Chukwuma, and center-guard Ben Scott.

With quick feet and the ability to pick up second-level assignments, Majors has a chance to fit into an offensive scheme predicated on athleticism and moving in space. He is excited to get after it and learn from, among others, Tristan Wirfs and Graham Barton.

“Those are guys that are kind of the face of the league right now, trending towards it. To play with someone with that experience like Tristan and someone who’s played center in the league already like Graham, that’d be pretty cool,” Majors said with a smile just a couple months ago.

How quickly things can fall in place.

The Bucs hope that Jake Majors continues to be a fast learner. If so, Tampa Bay might have just found its next diamond-in-the-rough offensive lineman who can make the team and be a factor going forward.