Tampa Bay Buccaneers Retain Punter Riley Dixon for 2026 Season

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have exercised the option on punter Riley Dixon's contract, ensuring his presence on the team for the 2026 season. This decision comes after a challenging 2025 season for Dixon, who averaged 44.7 yards per punt and ranked 29th among NFL punters. Dixon, 32, signed a two-year, $6 million contract prior to the 2025 season, which includes a $3 million salary for 2026, comprising a $2.5 million base salary and a $500,000 roster bonus.

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Despite his struggles, including two blocked punts in the first four games of the season, the Buccaneers have opted to retain Dixon, citing his overall consistency and reliability. He has not missed a game in his ten-year NFL career and has demonstrated the ability to down punts inside the 20-yard line effectively, achieving this in all but three games during the 2025 season.

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The Buccaneers' special teams unit faced significant issues in 2025, particularly with kickoff coverage, prompting head coach Todd Bowles to explore various improvements. The team has recently hired veteran special teams coordinator Danny Smith, who previously served in the same capacity for the Pittsburgh Steelers since 2013. Smith, recognized as one of the best in the business, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Buccaneers' special teams, which have struggled with tackling on kickoffs.

HeavyBuccaneers pick up option on key special teamer

While retaining Dixon may provide some stability, critics argue that he is not the primary issue within the special teams unit. The Buccaneers' kickoff coverage has been highlighted as a more pressing concern, with Bowles acknowledging that the team has intentionally allowed touchbacks due to tackling difficulties. This has led to questions about the overall effectiveness of the special teams strategy moving forward.

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In light of the decision to keep Dixon, Bowles stated, “We’re looking at all avenues to improve our special teams,” indicating a broader commitment to addressing the team's performance issues. The hiring of Danny Smith is seen as a step towards enhancing the special teams' effectiveness.

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• “Buccaneers exercised the option on punter Riley Dixon’s contract, preventing him from becoming a free agent and tying him to Tampa for the 2026 season, per source,” — Adam Schefter, ESPN

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• “Dixon ranked 31 out of 35 punters in average in 2025 and 28th in net punting.” — Greg Auman, Fox Sports

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• “Now 50 years into his coaching career, Smith is still going and still considered one of the best in the biz.” — Mike Garofolo, NFL Network

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As the Buccaneers prepare for the 2026 season, they will focus on improving their special teams under the guidance of Danny Smith. The retention of Riley Dixon suggests a strategy aimed at maintaining stability while addressing the more significant challenges within the unit. With 17 players set to hit unrestricted free agency, including key starters, the Buccaneers will need to navigate their roster decisions carefully as they approach the new league year.

Buccaneers pick up option on key special teamer