Tight End Cade Otton Primed for Big Game as Bucs Lose Evans and Godwin

As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare to face the New Orleans Saints in Week 8, they will be without two of their top offensive weapons. Wide receiver Mike Evans suffered a broken collarbone last week and is expected to miss most of the remainder of the 2025 NFL season. Meanwhile, Chris Godwin Jr. is still working his way back from a fibula injury and a dislocated ankle, and will also sit out this upcoming contest.

The absences of Evans and Godwin present a prime opportunity for tight end Cade Otton. Over the past two seasons, Otton has emerged as a reliable target for quarterback Baker Mayfield when the Buccaneers' star pass-catchers have been sidelined. In four games without Evans and Godwin since the start of the 2024 campaign, Otton has averaged 61 receiving yards and 6.75 catches per game on 8.75 targets.

While Emeka Egbuka is also expected to see increased involvement in the passing game, he struggled last week against the Detroit Lions, hauling in just four receptions on 12 targets. Otton, on the other hand, led the way with seven catches for 65 yards in that contest.

Despite the favorable opportunity, oddsmakers aren't overly bullish on Otton's production, setting his receiving yard over/under at 39.5 and his reception over/under at 4.5. However, with few other reliable options for Mayfield to target, the tight end should be in line for a big day on National Tight End's Day.