Tampa Bay coach Todd Bowles says rookie receiver Ted Hurst’s breakout is “only a matter of time,” but did not specify whether it will come against Minnesota in Week 3. Hurst has five catches for 63 yards through two games.
Bowles cited Hurst’s crisp route-running, explosiveness, blocking and wide catch radius. The Buccaneers have ruled out rookies Rueben Bain Jr. and Josiah Trotter for the Vikings game because of injuries; their absences may bring more attention to Hurst.
A third-round pick, Hurst was initially expected to develop behind Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin Jr., Jalen McMillan and Tez Johnson. General manager Jason Licht said he underestimated Hurst after the rookie’s strong training camp. The article says McMillan’s early-season health problems have also given Hurst more opportunities.
