Buccaneers sign quarterback to active roster ahead of Cardinals game
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made several roster moves heading into Sunday’s matchup with the Arizona Cardinals.
With Baker Mayfield managing a shoulder injury from last week’s game, the team wanted extra depth in the quarterback room and made a move to address that.
According to Fox Sports Greg Auman, the Buccaneers elevated safety Marcus Banks and promoted quarterback Connor Bazelak from the practice squad to help with depth in regards to their latest injuries.
Bucs add QB insurance with Bazelak promotion
To make room for Bazelak, the Buccaneers waived running back Owen Wright, opening a roster spot for a quarterback who already knows the system well. Even though Mayfield is trending toward playing, the team has been cautious with injuries all year, and this move follows that same approach. The coaching staff wants to ensure they are protected in case Mayfield’s shoulder becomes an issue mid-game.
Bazelak has been with the team throughout the preseason and then on the practice squad and has shown steady command of the offense. Tampa Bay trusts what he brings as an emergency option. His preseason performance provides a solid foundation for the Bucs to feel comfortable elevating him for Week 13.
In preseason, Bazelak completed 32 of 46 passes, registered 261 passing yards, threw one touchdown and didn't throw any picks.
While no one expects Bazelak to play unless necessary, which would likely mean Teddy Bridgewater would get hurt as well in that doomsday scenario, the Bucs now have added security behind Mayfield. With the team in playoff position and every game mattering more, depth at quarterback becomes a smart insurance policy.
Marcus Banks brought up to strengthen special teams
Along with Bazelak, Tampa Bay elevated safety Marcus Banks from the practice squad. Banks is expected to play primarily on special teams, where the Buccaneers have made continuous adjustments throughout the season. His athleticism and experience make him a strong fit for kickoff and punt coverage units.
Given how important field position and special teams execution have been for Tampa Bay, bringing in Banks gives them another reliable body as they prepare for this game. His elevation also aligns with the team’s approach of staying ready for injury issues.
As the Buccaneers head into a critical Week 13 matchup with the Cardinals, these roster moves help ensure they are prepared at quarterback, on special teams and across the board.
‘Criticism is Just Noise’: DK Metcalf Responds to Doubts with Confidence
After a challenging start with the Pittsburgh Steelers, wide receiver DK Metcalf is firing back at the critics who have questioned his fit within the team’s offensive system. Despite some doubts about his ability to seamlessly integrate into the Steelers' offense, Metcalf remains confident in his skills and his role on the team, promising to prove that he belongs on the field.
"Criticism is just noise. I’m here to prove that I belong. I don’t need to fit into any perfect mold. I fit in by making plays. Watch me do it,” Metcalf said, showing the kind of confidence that has made him a standout player in the NFL.
Metcalf’s comments come in the wake of a few weeks where his performance has been analyzed and scrutinized. Some critics have questioned his ability to adjust to Pittsburgh’s offensive scheme, especially given his size and playstyle. However, Metcalf’s response is clear: he’s not interested in fitting into a “perfect mold” that others expect. Instead, he’s focused on what he does best — making big plays and contributing to the team’s success.
The wide receiver’s mentality has always been one of resilience and self-belief. Throughout his career, Metcalf has been a physical specimen — a combination of size, speed, and athleticism that makes him a matchup nightmare for defenders. However, his critics have sometimes cited his reliance on his physical tools as a limitation to his overall game. But Metcalf is unfazed. He has consistently proven that he’s more than just a big-bodied receiver — he’s a dynamic playmaker who can take over games.
"I’ve been doubted before, and it’s never stopped me. I’m here to make a difference on this team," Metcalf continued. "Whether it’s through big catches or moving the chains, I’ll show I’m an asset, and I’ll do it by producing on the field, not by worrying about the noise."
This response underscores the mentality that Metcalf brings to the table — no matter what is said about him or his fit within the system, he is going to show up and play his heart out. And the Steelers know they need exactly that kind of mindset to turn their season around and get back into playoff contention.
Metcalf’s talent is undeniable. His combination of size (6'4", 230 lbs) and speed has already led to a successful career in the NFL, including impressive seasons with the Seattle Seahawks
The wide receiver’s response also speaks to his leadership qualities. Rather than focusing on external criticism or trying to meet expectations, Metcalf is committed to letting his actions on the field speak for themselves. And as the Steelers move forward, that kind of attitude will be crucial for the team’s success, especially with the high expectations placed on Metcalf to be a difference-maker.
“It’s all about putting in the work, staying focused, and proving who I am on the field,” Metcalf added. “Criticism doesn’t bother me; it just fuels me.”
With Metcalf's confidence and determination, the Steelers can expect to see the best version of him moving forward. He’s ready to prove he belongs, and nothing is going to stop him from showing that he’s a key piece in Pittsburgh’s offensive future.
