With training camp set to begin Sunday morning, the Bucs have placed tight end Cam Brate and wide receiver Justin Watson on the P.U.P. (physically unable to perform) list. In response to those moves, the team has signed tight end De’Quan Hampton. Brate and Watson join WR John Franklin and CB Chris Wilcox on the P.U.P. list.

Brate is the team’s No. 3 tight end, but stepped up in a big way when the Bucs lost O.J. Howard to a torn Achilles in Week 4 last season. The eight-year pro hasn’t missed a game in four seasons, catching 28 passes for 282 yards and two touchdowns during the 2020 regular season. Brate was even more impressive in the playoffs, reeling in 14 catches for 175 yards and a score.

Watson barely played on offense last year, but was the team’s leading tackler on special teams. He’s currently on the outside looking-in for a roster spot, which means he probably can’t afford to miss much time. Based on mini-camp, at least seven receivers sit ahead of Watson on the depth chart.

Hampton will attempt to make good on his second shot at the NFL, after stints in Detroit and New Orleans. The former USC wide receiver is a big body at 6-4, 225, but only recorded 22 catches for 238 yards and two touchdowns in college. Hampton most recently played for the XFL’s Los Angeles Wildcats. His addition to the roster leaves the Bucs with just one roster spot to fill before Sunday.

Players on the PUP list will continue to count against the 90-man camp roster limit. Brate, Watson, Franklin and Wilcox can be activated and return to practice at any time.