The Tampa Bay Buccaneers took a patient approach to the tight end position this offseason, and it's paying off for two players looking to make their mark.

While the Bucs locked up starter Cade Otton with a $30 million, three-year contract, they opted not to draft a tight end in the 2026 NFL Draft until their final pick. They also passed on free-agent additions. Instead of making a splash, Tampa Bay is betting on internal development—and the spotlight is now on Payne Durham and Devin Culp.

Otton remains the undisputed TE1 after another steady season, providing reliability as both a pass-catcher and blocker. But with limited proven depth behind him, the door is wide open for competition.

Durham brings a physical presence and toughness to the field. While he may not have elite athletic upside, his consistency and willingness to handle the dirty work—blocking, grinding in the trenches—could earn him valuable snaps. He's the kind of player coaches trust in key situations.

Culp, on the other hand, offers a different kind of intrigue. The Washington product flashed as a receiving threat in college, showing the ability to stretch the seam and create mismatches against linebackers and safeties. He's still a work in progress as a blocker, but his vertical element from the tight end position has been largely absent in Tampa Bay's offense. That could be a game-changer.

By holding off on major additions, the Buccaneers have set the stage for a compelling training camp battle. Both Durham and Culp will have a chance to carve out roles behind Otton, with the coaching staff prioritizing reliability, versatility, and effort.

It may not have been the expected approach, but it reflects confidence in these players' ability to grow into their potential. For fans and fantasy enthusiasts alike, this quietly important position battle is one to watch this summer.