The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have finalized their quarterback lineup for the 2024 season, bringing back a familiar face to complement their existing stars. John Wolford, a fifth-year quarterback who spent the 2023 season navigating between the Buccaneers’ practice squad and active roster, has officially re-signed with the team. This move ensures continuity in Tampa Bay’s quarterback room, as Wolford joins established starter Baker Mayfield, who recently secured a new three-year contract, and Kyle Trask, the 2021 draft pick entering the final year of his rookie contract.
Wolford’s journey to Tampa Bay began in May of last year after a four-season stint with the Los Angeles Rams. During his time with the Rams, he spent three seasons on the active roster, gaining valuable experience in the NFL system. His preseason performance for the Buccaneers was noteworthy, marked by a 66.7% pass completion rate, a touchdown throw, zero interceptions, and an impressive 106.8 passer rating. This strong showing initially earned him the team’s third-string quarterback position, operating from the practice squad at the season’s outset. However, when the Rams expressed interest in a potential reunion, the Buccaneers swiftly promoted Wolford to their 53-man roster in Week Nine, highlighting his perceived value to the team. Despite being on the active roster for the latter part of the season, Wolford was inactive for the final 12 games, including the Buccaneers’ playoff run.
Throughout his NFL career, John Wolford has accumulated five starts with the Rams, including a postseason appearance, and boasts a winning record in three of those starts. Notably, he secured a victory in his sole start in 2020 and added another win in 2022 while filling in for an injured Matthew Stafford, before Baker Mayfield was brought in by the Rams. His familiarity with the Buccaneers’ current Offensive Coordinator, Liam Coen, is another significant aspect of his return. Wolford previously worked under Coen with the Rams during the 2019-20 and 2022 seasons, establishing a pre-existing working relationship that could benefit team cohesion and offensive understanding.
Statistically, John Wolford has completed 61 of 104 passes (58.7%) for 626 yards, with one touchdown and five interceptions in regular season play. His path to the NFL began after a college career at Wake Forest. He initially entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets in 2018. Following a brief period on the Jets’ practice squad as a rookie, he signed with the Rams in the spring of 2019, marking the true beginning of his NFL journey.
In conclusion, the re-signing of John Wolford provides the Buccaneers with experienced depth at the quarterback position. His familiarity with the coaching staff and offensive system, combined with his NFL experience, makes him a valuable asset as Tampa Bay looks to build upon their successes in the upcoming season.
