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Anzalone Leads Bucs Defense as Vea, Wirfs Day-to-Day

7/31/2026

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Summary

Anzalone Leads Defense

Alex Anzalone assumed the field-general role for the Buccaneers’ defense during Thursday’s practice.
He called a timeout in the final periods, demonstrating on-field leadership.
In red-zone drills he blanketed running backs and tight ends, forcing quarterbacks to look elsewhere.
Seventh-round pick Baur Sharp caught a square-out touchdown pass from Baker Mayfield in the red zone.
Receiver Tez Johnson scored a touchdown on a post route.

Summary

Vea, Wirfs Injured

Vita Vea missed the first camp practice due to a back tweak and contract talks, making him day-to-day.
Tristan Wirfs missed Wednesday’s session after a hamstring tweak was found in the conditioning test.
Coach Todd Bowles said both players remain day-to-day while the team evaluates their availability.
Safeties Tykee Smith and Antoine Winfield Jr. forced a Thursday fumble, recovering the ball after Emeka Egbuka’s catch from Baker Mayfield.

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Anzalone Leads Defense

Alex Anzalone assumed the field-general role for the Buccaneers’ defense during Thursday’s practice.
He called a timeout in the final periods, demonstrating on-field leadership.
In red-zone drills he blanketed running backs and tight ends, forcing quarterbacks to look elsewhere.
Seventh-round pick Baur Sharp caught a square-out touchdown pass from Baker Mayfield in the red zone.
Receiver Tez Johnson scored a touchdown on a post route.

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