The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to bolster their quarterback depth by signing rookie Connor Bazelak to their practice squad, according to multiple reports. The undrafted free agent out of Bowling Green, who impressed during the 2025 preseason, was waived by the team on August 26 as part of final roster cuts but is expected to return in a developmental role, pending clearance through waivers.
Bazelak, a 24-year-old Dayton, Ohio native, showcased his potential during the Buccaneers’ preseason, completing 32 of 46 passes for 261 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. Despite a fumble in his first preseason game against the Titans, Bazelak led scoring drives, including a touchdown pass to wide receiver Garrett Greene in the final preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills. His performance earned praise from analysts and coaches, with many noting his poise and accuracy under pressure.
“Connor showed some real flashes during camp and the preseason,” said a source close to the team, per Fox Sports’ Greg Auman. “He’s a developmental prospect with a lot of upside, and the Bucs want to keep him in the fold on the practice squad.”
Bazelak’s journey to the NFL has been marked by resilience. After starting his college career at Missouri, where he was named SEC co-Freshman of the Year in 2020, he transferred to Indiana for the 2022 season and later to Bowling Green for his final two years. At Bowling Green, Bazelak led the Mid-American Conference (MAC) in passing yards (3,044) and completion percentage (66.9%) in 2024, earning All-MAC Third Team honors. His collegiate stats include over 10,000 passing yards, 50 touchdowns, and 1,000 career completions, a milestone achieved by only 41 players in FBS history.
The Buccaneers’ decision to bring Bazelak back to the practice squad aligns with their strategy to develop young talent behind starter Baker Mayfield and newly signed backup Teddy Bridgewater. The team also recently released long-time backup Kyle Trask, who sustained a shoulder injury in the final preseason game, clearing the way for Bridgewater to assume the QB2 role. Bazelak’s addition to the practice squad provides insurance and a long-term project for a quarterback room looking to balance experience with potential.
Head coach Todd Bowles has emphasized the importance of depth at the quarterback position, especially given Mayfield’s aggressive playing style. “It’s always good to have guys who can step in and get the job done,” Bowles said earlier in the preseason. Bazelak’s signing reflects the team’s commitment to building a robust quarterback pipeline as they aim for a Super Bowl run in 2025.
If Bazelak clears waivers, he is expected to begin practicing with the team immediately, offering the Buccaneers a chance to further develop a quarterback who could one day compete for a roster spot. For now, the rookie will have the opportunity to learn from Mayfield and Bridgewater while honing his skills in Tampa Bay’s system.
The Buccaneers open their regular season against the Washington Commanders on September 8, 2025, with Mayfield leading the charge and Bridgewater as the primary backup. Fans will be watching closely to see how Bazelak progresses on the practice squad as the season unfolds.
