Rookie wideout Ted Hurst III is flashing "Mike-like" potential at training camp, channeling a relentless professional mindset to fill the void left by franchise legend Mike Evans.
Ted Hurst III is seeing firsthand how different college football and the pros are.
Hurst's observations two weeks into the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' training camp are about how intentional each player is. The attention to detail is what separates college from the NFL.
Seeing the way his teammates approach practice has influenced the rookie's mindset as he tries to make his mark in the NFL.
"I'm just trying to be a pro," Hurst said after last Sunday's camp practice. "And learn my route, learn my ways to get ready for each and every day. Because like I said, these guys come and attack practice, and they're intentional every day."
The 6-foot-3 receiver joins a position group that will start next season without Mike Evans. He ended his 12-year tenure with the team by signing a three-year, $60 million contract with the San Francisco 49ers.
Replacing a franchise legend who consistently recorded over 1,000 yards for several seasons has attracted questions about how effective the receiving corps can be.
Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin Jr. and Jalen McMillan will headline the starting group. Hurst doesn't solve all their problems as a third-round pick, but he's made catches that are very reminiscent of the ones Evans used to make.
He caught a pass from quarterback Baker Mayfield over starting cornerback Jacob Parrish in last Sunday's practice. Mayfield placed the ball only where his rookie could catch it with his height over the smaller defender.
Pewter Report has praised the 22-year-old, saying he's "Mike-like." It's a hefty comparison for the young receiver, but the bright glimpses he's showing make it a bit difficult not to compare him to the franchise legend.
He's certainly been a player to watch during camp, as he's earning first-team reps since Jalen McMillan is day-to-day with minor knee and calf injuries.
The former Georgia State Panther is carrying his success to the next level. At Georgia State, he tallied 1,965 yards and 15 touchdowns for the Panthers. Hurst had a career-high nine touchdowns in 2024 and broke the 1,000-yard mark last season.
Tampa Bay will host a joint practice with the New York Jets this week before playing them on Friday. It's a real test for Hurst against other starting cornerbacks.
Nahshon Wright is the Jets starter, and he finished the season tied for second in interceptions (five). The rookie will likely have some reps against him, but a deep receiving corps allows him to slot in as a third or fourth receiver, which draws starting corners to Egbuka or Godwin.
While Hurst is catching eyes with his "Mike-like" plays, he's attacking each practice intentionally just like his teammates do.
