Buccaneers tag S Antoine Winfield Jr.

Field Level Media|published: Tue 5th March, 13:54 2024

Jan 7, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield Jr. (31) during pregame warm ups against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. credits: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield Jr. received the franchise tag ahead of the Tuesday deadline and would make $17.3 million for the 2024 season if he doesn't reach agreement on a long-term deal with Tampa Bay before July 17.

Entering the offseason with a slew of contract matters to address, Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht said last week that Winfield was a high priority in a pecking order that no longer includes re-signed receiver Mike Evans.

"I mean, if we can re-sign Mike (Evans) and Baker (Mayfield) and Lavonte (David), Chase (McLaughlin), Antoine (Winfield Jr.) and Tristan (Wirfs), I mean, we should be throwing another boat parade," Licht said of his free agency to-do list.

Winfield was named All-Pro in 2023 with 122 tackles, six sacks, six forced fumbles and three interceptions.

Evans signed a two-year, $56 million extension with the Buccaneers on Monday.

Mayfield becomes the top priority with both sides stating they're interested in sticking together coming off a division title and playoff appearance in 2023. The clock is ticking on Licht to find the financial leverage to retain Mayfield before the league year begins March 13.

—Field Level Media