Rookie Tez Johnson Scores First TD as Buccaneers Fall 24-9 to Lions

When Tez Johnson, a 22‑year‑old rookie wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers caught a 22‑yard pass for his first career touchdown, the Buccaneers were already down 24‑9 at Ford Field in Detroit on Monday night, October 20, 2025.

Background: A Buccaneers Road Trip Stumbles

The Buccaneers entered Week 7 with a 3‑3 record, looking to snap a three‑game losing streak that had them at 0‑3 on the road. Their opponent, the Detroit Lions, were coming off a convincing win over the Green Bay Packers and were eager to protect their home field. Both teams were slated for a prime‑time showdown on Monday Night Football, broadcast nationally on ESPN.

Coach Todd Bowles had emphasized a balanced attack in the week‑leading press conference, but injuries to veteran receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin during the first half forced a shift in focus to the younger corps.

Game‑day Highlights: Johnson’s Touchdown in Context

Quarterback Baker Mayfield completed 22 of 35 passes for 247 yards, two interceptions and the lone touchdown—thrown to Johnson on an 11‑play, 67‑yard drive that ate up four minutes of clock. The drive began after a disciplined 5‑yard rush and a clutch third‑down conversion that set up Mayfield’s throw down the sideline.

The play itself was a textbook route: Johnson sprinted a quick slant, created separation with a sharp body‑change, and secured the ball just inside the 20‑yard line before tucking it away for the score. The crowd of 66,000 heard a collective gasp, but the moment was quickly eclipsed by Detroit’s subsequent field goal that padded the lead.

Statistically, the Buccaneers managed only nine total points, both coming from field goals. Their offense struggled to establish rhythm, tallying just 247 passing yards and a paltry 46 rushing yards. In contrast, the Lions amassed 332 total yards and forced two turnovers, sealing the win.

Coaches Speak: What McClendon and Bowles Said

During the post‑game press conference at Raymond James Stadium on Tuesday, offensive coordinator Bryan McClendon praised Johnson’s performance, noting, “The first thing that jumped off when you watch TZ coming out of college was his ability to create explosive plays. He may be listed at 150 pounds, but he moved like a linebacker on that route.”

McClendon added that the rookie’s touchdown was a “big moment” that could signal a larger role, especially with the injuries to Evans (ankle) and Godwin (hamstring). “You’ve had a lot of guys go down and a lot of guys have to step up. I don’t know 150‑something pounds, maybe not expected to get on the field right away, but we saw what a big moment he had in the last couple weeks,” he said.

Head coach Todd Bowles, when asked about the offensive adjustments, emphasized patience: “We’re still figuring out the pieces. The guys that get the ball have to do the work, and Tez just showed he can make a play when we need it.” He also highlighted the importance of the Lions’ defensive injuries—cornerbacks D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, and Avonte Maddox were all sidelined, which may have opened a small window for Johnson’s route.

Looking Ahead: How Johnson’s Role May Expand

The Buccaneers head to Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte on Sunday, October 27, 2025, to face the Carolina Panthers. General Manager Jason Licht confirmed that Johnson will see increased snaps, given the lingering injuries to Evans and Godwin.

Analysts predict that Johnson’s usage could rise to 30‑35 percent of target share if the Buccaneers continue to rotate their receiving corps. His rookie contract, signed in May 2025 as an undrafted free agent, includes performance incentives tied to receptions and yardage, making every snap financially significant for the young player.

Meanwhile, the Lions will look to rebound from the loss, hoping to keep their defense healthy and add a few more points before the season’s final stretch. The matchup against the Buccaneers remains a key testing ground for both teams as they jockey for playoff positioning.

Player Profile: From Oregon to the NFL

Tez Johnson, born Tezarius Johnson, hails from Portland, Oregon, where he starred at West Linn High School before committing to the University of Oregon. At Oregon, he posted 1,845 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns over three seasons, earning All‑Pac‑12 honors his senior year.

After going undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, Johnson signed with the Buccaneers in May, impressing coaches during OTAs with his precise route‑running and quickness. His college coaches often described him as “a gum‑shoe with a ceiling,” a comment that now feels prescient after his first NFL score.

Off the field, Johnson is known for his community work, regularly visiting Tampa youth programs and tutoring students in math. He has said his long‑term goal is to become a mentor for younger players navigating the transition from college to the pros.

• First career touchdown: 22‑yard reception from Baker Mayfield
• Game date: October 20, 2025
• Location: Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan
• Buccaneers record after game: 3‑4 (0‑1 on the road)
• Upcoming game: vs. Carolina Panthers, October 27, 2025