Fantasy Player Profile
@ATL: #12 vs opposing TE - 11.70 FPA
| Rushing | Receiving | Fum | Fantasy | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wk | Opp | Yds | TD | Yds | TD | Lost | Pts |
| 1 | DAL, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 2 | ATL, | - | - | 21 | - | - | 3.10 |
| 3 | @LA, | - | - | 11 | - | - | 2.10 |
| 4 | @NE, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 5 | MIA, | - | - | 19 | - | - | 3.90 |
| 6 | @PHI, | - | - | 49 | 1 | - | 16.90 |
| 7 | CHI, | - | - | 9 | - | - | 1.90 |
| 8 | @NO, | - | - | 16 | - | - | 3.60 |
| 9 | Bye | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 10 | @WAS, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 11 | NYG, | - | - | 10 | - | - | 2.00 |
| 12 | @IND, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 13 | @ATL, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 14 | BUF, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 15 | NO, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 16 | @CAR, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 17 | @NYJ, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
| 18 | CAR, | - | - | - | - | - | 0.00 |
- 1
- 23.10
- 32.10
- 40.00
- 53.90
- 616.90
- 71.90
- 83.60
- 9
- 10
- 112.00
- 12
- 13
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9 Bye
- 10
- 11
- 12
- 13
- 14
- 15
- 16
- 17
- 18
-
No catches in Week 12 win
Howard did not record a target during his nine snaps from scrimmage in Sunday's 38-31 win over the Colts.
Analysis: The fifth-year tight end logged 13 fewer snaps than Cameron Brate and 46 less than Rob Gronkowski, leaving no doubt as to his spot on the depth chart. Howard now has all of one target over the last three contests, and Sunday's snap count was his lowest since Week 1, when he began to be worked back into action following an Achilles tear that ended his 2020 campaign.
Published: Mon, Nov 29 at 9:38pm by Rotowire.com
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One target in Gronk's return
Howard secured his only target for a 10-yard gain in the Buccaneers' 30-10 win over the Giants on Monday night.
Analysis: Howard was third among the Buccaneers' tight ends in snap share (26 percent) and targets. With Rob Gronkowski back in action Monday night and healthy for now, Howard is likely to continue operating in a depth role during a Week 12 matchup against the Colts.
Published: Tue, Nov 23 at 9:17pm by Rotowire.com
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No targets in Week 10 loss
Howard did not see a target over his 28 snaps from scrimmage during Sunday's 29-19 loss to Washington, but his lack of looks was unrelated to the fact he committed a false start penalty on the first play of the game, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The fifth-year tight end's total lack of opportunity was especially disappointing when considering Rob Gronkowski (back) remained out of action. Howard had at least shown signs of an offensive pulse over the last month-plus with multiple receptions in three of the past four games, but if Gronkowski can make it back for Monday night's game against the Giants, the Alabama product could be a non-factor for a second straight contest.
Published: Mon, Nov 15 at 10:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Two grabs in loss
Howard secured two of three targets for 16 yards in the Buccaneers' 36-27 loss to the Saints on Sunday.
Analysis: The fifth-year tight end logged 28 snaps on offense (46 percent), with the fact Rob Gronkowski exited after just six snaps due to back spasms helping Howard's cause. The Alabama product has now produced multiple catches in three of the past four games, and if Gronkowski's back issues don't clear up over the Buccaneers' Week 9 bye, Howard could remain on the fantasy radar in Week 10 against Washington.
Published: Mon, Nov 1 at 7:29am by Rotowire.com
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Remains limited Thursday
Howard (ankle) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday.
Analysis: The Buccaneers are readying for the return of top TE Rob Gronkowski for the first time since Week 3 due to cracked and fractured ribs and a punctured lung. After getting back on the practice field Wednesday as a limited participant -- just like Howard -- Gronkowski jumped all the way to full Thursday. Howard thus appears to be the least healthy of the team's tight ends behind Gronkowski and Cameron Brate, but ultimately Friday's injury report may clear up all of their statuses for Sunday's game…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 28 at 2:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited by ankle issue
Howard (ankle) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
Analysis: Howard managed one limited practice and one full practice last week before being listed as questionable ahead of Sunday's game against the Bears. He was active and logged 51 percent of the offensive snaps, but he gathered in just one of three targets for nine yards in the Bucs' blowout victory. With Rob Gronkowski (ribs) back on the practice field Wednesday, the breakdown of tight end snaps between him, Howard and Cameron Brate is poised to change in the near future. Whether that happens this…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 27 at 1:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Held to one grab in win
Howard (ankle) brought in one of three targets for nine yards in the Buccaneers' 38-3 win over the Bears on Sunday.
Analysis: The veteran tight end was coming off a season-best 6-49-1 line against the Eagles in Week 6, but he was right back to a minimal role Sunday despite the absences of both Antonio Brown (ankle) and Rob Gronkowski (ribs). Howard did log a solid 37 snaps, but with Gronkowski potentially back for a Week 8 matchup against the Saints, his opportunities could dry up further as early as Sunday.
Published: Mon, Oct 25 at 7:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Active against Bears
Howard (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Bears, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The fifth-year tight end was able to work back to full practice participation Friday, so the questionable tag he carried into the weekend always had at least a bit of skepticism attached. Howard is now officially available to help Cameron Brate shoulder the workload at tight end against the Bears in what will be Rob Gronkowski's third straight absence. The 26-year-old is coming off a season-best 6-49-1 against the Eagles in Week 6.
Published: Sun, Oct 24 at 12:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Questionable, despite full practice
Howard (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bears, despite being a full practice participant Friday.
Analysis: The tight end took a step forward each day, going from no participation Wednesday to limited work Thursday before logging a full practice Friday. Howard should be active for Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, but if not, Cameron Brate will get more playing time and targets. Meanwhile, top tight end Rob Gronkowski (ribs) still hasn't returned to practice and will miss a fourth straight game this weekend.
Published: Fri, Oct 22 at 11:49am by Rotowire.com
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Logs limited practice Thursday
Howard (ankle) was limited at Thursday's practice.
Analysis: While Greg Auman of The Athletic noted Howard was holding a helmet and didn't seem to be inhibited in the portion of the session open to the media, the Buccaneers officially put him down as a limited participant. That may just mean Howard didn't take part in any or all team drills, but in any case he's trending in the right direction in advance of Sunday's game versus the Bears. With Rob Gronkowski (ribs) still unable to practice, Howard and Cameron Brate are slated to handle tight end for a…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 21 at 2:20pm by Rotowire.com
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Tending to ankle injury
Howard didn't practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury.
Analysis: Howard wasn't spotted during the portion of Wednesday's session open to the media, and now the reason for his absence is known. He joins Rob Gronkowski (ribs) as a non-participant, which leaves Cameron Brate as the only healthy tight end on the Buccaneers' roster. Howard will look to get back on the field during the team's final two practices of Week 7.
Published: Wed, Oct 20 at 2:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Breaks out with six catches
Howard secured six of seven targets for 49 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 28-22 win over the Eagles on Thursday night.
Analysis: The seldom-used tight end surprisingly broke out for season-best catch and yardage totals in the primetime win, adding his first touchdown of the season on a two-yard scoring grab to cap off a 10-play game-opening drive. Howard's expanded opportunity came due to the ongoing absence of Rob Gronkowski (ribs), but it was still noteworthy when considering he doubled up position mate Cameron Brate in catches while also logging three more targets. Despite the encouraging performance, Howard's fantasy…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 14 at 9:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Pair of grabs in big win
Howard brought in two of three targets for 19 yards in the Buccaneers' 45-17 win over the Dolphins on Sunday.
Analysis: The athletic tight end logged a solid workload (43 snaps) for a second straight game and did more with the opportunity than he did during a Week 4 win over the Patriots. Howard's two receptions were still only his third and fourth of the season, however, and his modest fantasy value would evaporate if Rob Gronkowski returns from his rib injury for a Thursday matchup against the Eagles in Week 6.
Published: Mon, Oct 11 at 9:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Disappoints with extra playing time
Howard failed to come up with his only target in the Buccaneers' 19-17 win over the Patriots on Sunday night.
Analysis: He appeared primed for a boost in opportunity with Rob Gronkowski (ribs) sidelined, and although he did see his biggest snap share of the season, Howard still came up empty. The fifth-year tight end played 65 percent of the offensive snaps, seeing one more snap than Cameron Brate. Howard should be set for plenty of time on the field again versus the Dolphins in Week 5 with Gronkowski expected to remain out at least one more game, but if the 26-year-old fails to make even a minimal impact versus…read more
Published: Mon, Oct 4 at 10:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Primed for larger role
Howard and Cameron Brate could see added playing time this week, with fellow Bucs tight end Rob Gronkowski (ribs) doubtful for Sunday's game against the Patriots, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Last week, Brate saw five targets on 45 percent of snaps, while Howard got just one target on 19 percent even though Gronkowski was limited after halftime. However, the Bucs were trailing by multiple scores throughout much of the second half in their eventual loss to the Rams, with the situation likely favoring Brate over Howard. A different game plan or game script could work more in Howard's favor, but he's far from a lock to see steady targets Sunday night. The 2017 first-round pick has…read more
Published: Fri, Oct 1 at 2:27pm by Rotowire.com
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One catch in loss
Howard secured his only target for 11 yards in the Buccaneers' 34-24 loss to the Rams on Sunday.
Analysis: Howard's sparse usage persisted Sunday, although he did bump up his snap count to a season-high 14 after logging 11 against the Falcons in Week 2. Even if the incremental increases in Howard's playing time continue, his best chance at providing fantasy value might require the rib injury Rob Gronkowski suffered Sunday to be more serious than it initially appears.
Published: Mon, Sep 27 at 9:40pm by Rotowire.com
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First catch of season Sunday
Howard secured his only target for 21 yards while logging 11 snaps from scrimmage in Sunday's 48-25 win over the Falcons.
Analysis: The oft-injured tight end took some small steps forward from a catchless season-opening win over the Cowboys in which he logged only six snaps on offense. The Buccaneers are seemingly easing the talented Howard back into action after last season's Achilles tear, and with Rob Gronkowski looking to be in prime form over the first two games, Howard could find extensive playing time a bit difficult to come by even when he's deemed to be back at full strength.
Published: Wed, Sep 22 at 10:22pm by Rotowire.com
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Sparse action in opener
Howard did not see a target in the Buccaneers' 31-29 win over the Cowboys on Thursday night, and Greg Auman of The Athletic reports the tight end logged just six snaps from scrimmage.
Analysis: Howard performed well in training camp and appeared to shake off some rust during preseason action while recording a 5-44 line over three exhibitions. Consequently, his significantly limited usage Thursday was somewhat of a head scratcher, although Auman speculates it could have been a byproduct of the 2018 first-round pick not being completely recovered from last season's early-October Achilles tear. Howard's next opportunity to break the ice on the 2021 season will come in a Week 2 battle…read more
Published: Fri, Sep 10 at 9:05pm by Rotowire.com
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One catch in preseason win
Howard brought in his only target for five yards in the Buccaneers' 23-16 preseason win over the Texans on Saturday night.
Analysis: Although Howard only had the one catch, Joey Knight of the Tampa Bay Times notes it was a key one, with the big tight end bringing in the reception on third down in the red zone to set up the Buccaneers' second touchdown. By all accounts, Howard has looked like he's progressively shed rust this summer, and he should enjoy a solid role in the game plan in the Week 1 showdown against the Cowboys on Thursday, Sept. 9.
Published: Sun, Aug 29 at 8:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Solid in preseason loss
Howard secured three of six targets for 24 yards in the Buccaneers' 34-3 preseason loss to the Titans on Saturday night.
Analysis: A week after celebrating his return to action following his Achilles' tear with a 15-yard grab against the Bengals last Saturday, Howard took matters a step further with a strong effort versus Tennessee. The talented but oft-injured tight end seems to be rounding into shape nicely ahead of Week 1, and with a healthy six targets on the night, it appears the Buccaneers wanted to make sure to get him plenty of reps. Considering he's working back from a long layoff, Howard could potentially be one…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 21 at 8:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Makes long-awaited return
Howard (Achilles) secured his only target for 15 yards in the Buccaneers' 19-14 preseason loss to the Bengals on Saturday night.
Analysis: Howard's one grab in his first taste of game action since Week 4 of last season was particularly timely, as it came on a third down during the Buccaneers' second drive, one that would ultimately culminate in a Ke'Shawn Vaughn touchdown run. Howard seemed to pass his first in-game test without any setbacks after putting in solid work over the first couple weeks of camp, and he therefore could be due for a boost in workload in the Buccaneers' second preseason game against the Titans on Saturday.
Published: Sun, Aug 15 at 10:41pm by Rotowire.com
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No limitations in practice
Howard (Achilles) was eased into training camp but now appears to be practicing without any significant limitations, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Coming back from a torn Achilles suffered Week 4 last year, Howard seems to be on track for the regular-season opener and could play in an exhibition this August. His path to regular targets is less clear, as the Bucs also have Rob Gronkowski and Cameron Brate at tight end, not to mention one of the best wideout groups in the NFL.
Published: Mon, Aug 9 at 7:07am by Rotowire.com
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Returns to practice Friday
Howard (Achilles) was participating at Friday's practice, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The 26-year-old took things easy for the few days of camp as he makes his return from the ruptured Achilles he suffered in Week 4 last year, but he's practicing for the first time Friday. Howard appeared to be taking part in some 11-on-11 work, which signals he's on track to be available for the start of the regular season in early September.
Published: Fri, Jul 30 at 7:26am by Rotowire.com
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Not yet practicing
Howard (Achilles) was present at Sunday's practice but did not participate, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Coach Bruce Arians said in early June that Howard was "really close" to returning, but the tight end apparently isn't quite ready to retake the field. The 26-year-old suffered a ruptured Achilles during Week 4 last year and missed the rest of the season, so it won't be surprising to see him slowly ramp things up early in training camp.
Published: Sun, Jul 25 at 1:22pm by Rotowire.com
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Closing in on return
Coach Bruce Arians indicated Tuesday that Howard (Achilles) is "really close" to returning, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Howard played just four games last season due to injury and racked up 11 catches for 146 yards and a pair of touchdowns in his brief campaign. Even when Howard is back in a full capacity, he'll have to contend with Rob Gronkowski and Cameron Brate for snaps at a loaded tight end spot for the Bucs.
Published: Tue, Jun 8 at 8:14am by Rotowire.com
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Progressing well
Coach Bruce Arians indicated Tuesday that Howard is "real close" to completing his recovery from an Achilles injury, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
Analysis: Per the report, Howard -- who suffered a ruptured Achilles last October -- isn't running on grass yet, but the 2017 first-rounder hasn't had any setbacks. With that in mind, Arians says "the sky's the limit" for Howard this coming season. Of course, with Rob Gronkowski and Cameron Brate also in the Buccaneers' tight end mix, steady volume figures to be an issue for Howard upon his return to game action.
Published: Tue, Mar 30 at 9:23am by Rotowire.com
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Entering contact year in '21
Howard finished the 2020 regular season with 11 receptions (19 targets) for 146 yards and two touchdowns across four games before suffering his season-ending Achilles injury Week 4 against the Chargers.
Analysis: Howard's 2020 campaign will go down in the books as a prototypical case of a substantial missed opportunity for both player and team. The fourth-year pro appeared to have instant rapport with Tom Brady and had already been targeted 19 times over 132 snaps before going down for the season. The early exit was unfortunately nothing new for the 2017 first-round pick, who's yet to play a full 16 game slate in any of his first four NFL campaigns. Howard has flashed plenty of potential at times and…read more
Published: Thu, Feb 11 at 3:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Heading to IR
Howard (Achilles) will be placed on injured reserve, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
Analysis: This was expected after it was announced Sunday that Howard had suffered a ruptured Achilles. Howard had 11 catches for 146 yards and two touchdowns before suffering the injury. Cameron Brate stands to pick up Howard's snaps the rest of the way.
Published: Tue, Oct 6 at 8:06am by Rotowire.com
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Ruptures Achilles
Coach Bruce Arians said Howard suffered a ruptured Achilles during Sunday's 38-31 win against the Chargers, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Howard's fourth campaign will end precisely at the quarter mark of the season, leaving him with 11 catches (on 19 targets) for 146 yards and two touchdowns. The Buccaneers will forge ahead with Rob Gronkowski, Cameron Brate and Tanner Hudson at tight end.
Published: Sun, Oct 4 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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Has Achilles injury
Howard has been ruled out of Sunday's contest against the Chargers due to an Achilles injury, Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
Analysis: Howard scored his second touchdown of the season Sunday in a three-catch, 50-yard performance. However, in the waning moments of the game, it was announced the fourth-year TE wouldn't return as a result of an Achilles concern. There's no telling whether or not it's a season-ender, but the Buccaneers nonetheless are down to Rob Gronkowski, Cameron Brate and Tanner Hudson at tight end.
Published: Sun, Oct 4 at 1:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Makes three catches in win
Howard brought in three of four targets for 49 yards in the Buccaneers' 28-10 win over the Broncos on Sunday.
Analysis: The highlight of the athletic tight end's day came on a 33-yard reception, but he was otherwise outshined by position-mate Rob Gronkowski, who doubled up Howard in catches on his way to a team-high figure. Through three games, Howard has put together an 8-96-1 line on 13 targets, which puts him on a pace for slightly better overall numbers than he's produced over his last pair of campaigns, when he's averaged 34.0 receptions, 511.5 yards and three touchdowns. He'll look to make bigger…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 27 at 5:37pm by Rotowire.com
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Quiet in Week 2 victory
Howard secured one of three targets for 11 yards in the Buccaneers' 31-17 win over the Panthers on Sunday.
Analysis: With Chris Godwin (concussion) sidelined Sunday, there was cautious optimism among some of the other Bucs skill-position players' fantasy managers that there would be a positive residual effect for several members of the offense. That never really materialized for any one player, including Howard, who actually saw his targets halved from his Week 1 tally. The fourth-year tight end will look to get back on track in Week 3 against the Broncos on the road, irrespective of whether Godwin is…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 20 at 10:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Finds end zone Week 1
Howard brought in four of six targets for 36 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 34-23 loss to the Saints on Sunday.
Analysis: Howard had a slow start to his season, but he broke the ice with a nine-yard scoring grab that saw him get wide open in the left portion of the end zone early in the third quarter. The talented fourth-year tight ultimately finished third in receptions behind Chris Godwin and Scotty Miller, and he notably doubled up position mate Rob Gronkowski in targets and receptions. He'll look to build up his numbers further in a Week 2 home matchup against a beatable Panthers defense.
Published: Sun, Sep 13 at 8:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as co-starter with Gronk
Howard is listed as a second starting tight alongside Rob Gronkowski in the first edition of the Buccaneers' unofficial regular-season depth chart released Monday, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Howard enjoyed a very strong camp by all accounts, building a quick rapport with Tom Brady and establishing himself as a frequent target despite the latter's intimate familiarity with Gronkowski. Given the Buccaneers arguably boast the deepest tight-end room in the league, it's unsurprising they list a 12 alignment as their base offense for depth-chart purposes. While Smith notes Cameron Brate and even blocking specialist Antony Auclair could be in on the first offensive play at times this…read more
Published: Mon, Sep 7 at 10:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Standing out in camp
Howard, who made several notable catches during Sunday's padded practice, has been singled out by coach Bruce Arians for his strong performance in camp, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
Analysis: The athletic fourth-year tight end is overshadowed at his own position to an extent going into this season due to the arrival of Rob Gronkowski, but Howard has made sure to keep his name in the news with strong performances throughout camp. On Sunday, the Alabama product made his presence felt with a tough diving and contested catch, as well as with a long grab down the sideline. Vitali reports Howard has been steadily increasing his workload in practices, and Arians made it a point to note how…read more
Published: Mon, Aug 24 at 11:11am by Rotowire.com
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Brady already an influence
Howard has demonstrated improved routes during training camp, and tight ends coach Rick Christophel notes Tom Brady has been a factor, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Howard has had the underachiever label affixed to a certain degree over his first three seasons, even as injuries have also played a significant role in his somewhat underwhelming numbers. Smith's report indicates that Howard may benefit considerably from the change under center in Tampa this season, although he'll naturally have a formidable competitor for targets at the position in offseason arrival Rob Gronkowski, and to a lesser degree, fellow incumbent Cameron Brate. Christophel notes the…read more
Published: Fri, Aug 21 at 8:04am by Rotowire.com
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Could play regularly with Gronk
Howard could end up seeing steady snaps alongside Rob Gronkowski in 2020 after coach Bruce Arians said last week that "12 personnel," or two tight-end sets, will be the "base offense" for Tampa Bay, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: After a disappointing 2019 season in Arians' first year as coach, Howard looked like he could be a trade candidate when the Bucs acquired Gronkowski in April, reuniting the latter with Tom Brady in Tampa Bay. Instead, the Bucs not only elected to retain Howard, but they also exercised his $6.01 million fifth-year option for 2021, signaling that the 25-year-old is still firmly in the club's plans. He'll likely need to keep both the drops and penalties that plagued him in 2019 in check to both…read more
Published: Thu, Jun 11 at 1:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Starts working with Brady
Howard was among a contingent of Buccaneers skill players to attend a workout organized by Tom Brady at Berkeley Preparatory School on Tuesday, Rick Stroud and Joey Knight of the Tampa Bay Times report.
Analysis: The talented tight end, who was the subject of trade rumors prior to the draft, joined his new quarterback in what could become a series of regularly scheduled workouts until NFL facilities are once again open to players. Brady was reportedly the catalyst for Tuesday's proceedings and had a chance to throw to all of the players who attended, with Howard joined by position mate Cameron Brate but not Rob Gronkowski. Coach Bruce Arians has yet to reveal how he plans to keep all three quality tight…read more
Published: Wed, May 20 at 9:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Fifth-year option exercised
The Buccaneers informed Howard on Wednesday that his fifth-year team option will be exercised, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The estimated $6 million option is a steep price to pay for a player who currently sits second on the depth chart at tight end behind Rob Gronkowski, but it's worth noting that the latter's contract is set to expire after this season, while Howard carries a manageable $3.53 million cap hit for 2020. That being said, the Buccaneers are still likely to entertain trade offers for Howard, whose strong run blocking and ability to stretch the field could prove more valuable to another team while…read more
Published: Wed, Apr 29 at 12:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Pats still a possibility
Howard could be a trade target for the Patriots after the team dealt Rob Gronkowski to Tampa Bay on Tuesday, Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports reports.
Analysis: With Gronkowski now in the mix for Tampa Bay, it seems logical that either Howard or fellow tight end Cameron Brate could be on the move. Given that Matt LaCosse and Ryan Izzo are the only tight-end options currently on the Patriots' roster, it's easy to see why adding Howard could be a good fit. New England heads into Thursday's draft with 12 picks, and some of them could be in play to either to draft a tight end or trade for one like Howard.
Published: Wed, Apr 22 at 11:35am by Rotowire.com
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Targeted by Washington
The Buccaneers had discussions in February about trading Howard to Washington in exchange for left tackle Trent Williams, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The teams obviously were unable to reach an agreement at the time, but Tampa Bay's recent acquisition of Rob Gronkowski could lead to reduced trade demands for Howard, who can be kept under team control through 2021 via the fifth-year option on his rookie contract. The Bucs face a May 4 deadline to decide on that option, assuming the 25-year-old tight end remains on their roster. A trade with Washington would still make sense, but it would be tougher for Tampa to absorb Williams' large contract…read more
Published: Wed, Apr 22 at 7:08am by Rotowire.com
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Likely on the move
Howard's chances of being traded appear higher than ever after the Buccaneers' acquisition of Rob Gronkowski on Tuesday, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Naturally, there's also a plausible scenario where Cameron Brate is the player moved to ease the sudden glut of starting-quality tight ends on the Buccaneers roster, but Auman notes the latter previously took a $4.25 million pay cut to remain with the team in 2020. Meanwhile, Howard was already reportedly being shopped prior to Tuesday's Gronkowski acquisition, and he would likely fetch a slightly higher draft pick in a trade than Brate due to his youth, athleticism and overall upside. With…read more
Published: Tue, Apr 21 at 2:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Rumored to be on trade block
The Buccaneers have been shopping Howard to other teams ahead of the 2020 NFL Draft, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Auman is passing along a report from colleague Mike Lombardi, who broke the news on the "GM Shuffle" podcast Wednesday. Per Auman, Lombardi added that he wouldn't be surprised to see Howard moved next week, presumably at some point before or during the draft. The Alabama product had an underwhelming first year (34-459-1) in coach Bruce Arians' offense in 2019, but there's a belief he has the talent to serve as the type of ultra-athletic tight-end target new quarterback Tom Brady has enjoyed…read more
Published: Wed, Apr 15 at 9:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Major upgrade at QB
Howard is slated to catch passes from Tom Brady this coming season after the latter signed a two-year deal with the Buccaneers this week, Jim Trotter of NFL.com reports.
Analysis: The early stages of Howard's career have been largely defined by injury and inconsistent usage in the offensive schemes of both former head coach Dirk Koetter and current boss Bruce Arians. However, if the talented fourth-year pro is ever going to break out, it could well happen in the 2020 season, as he's set for a significant upgrade at quarterback. Howard has yet to exceed 34 receptions or 565 receiving yards in any of his first three campaigns; however, given Brady's favorable history with…read more
Published: Thu, Mar 19 at 11:54am by Rotowire.com
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Bucs likely using fifth-year option
General manager Jason Licht suggested the Buccaneers are likely to pick up the fifth-year option on Howard's contract, also noting that coaches are "more than excited" about what the tight end can do in his second year working under Bruce Arians, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Given what transpired in 2019, it's fair to wonder if Howard and Arians share Licht's enthusiasm. The young tight end never came close to making good on his breakout hype, with Arians pointing to drops, penalties and poor blocking to explain why Howard averaged just 3.8 targets per game. The 25-year-old did at least manage 8.7 yards per target, a major drop off from 2017 and 2018 but still well above average for a tight end. Howard is sure to pick up steam as a post-hype "sleeper" in 2020…read more
Published: Tue, Feb 25 at 1:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Disappointing finish to season
Howard was not targeted in the Buccaneers' 28-22 overtime loss to the Falcons on Sunday, finishing the 2019 season with 34 receptions on 53 targets for 459 yards and a touchdown across 14 games.
Analysis: That Howard wasn't even targeted in a game the Buccaneers played without Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (hamstring) is somewhat strangely fitting, considering how underwhelming his 2019 season was overall. The third-year pro looked to be turning the corner over the prior four contests, a stretch during which he amassed 16 receptions for 226 yards, or nearly half his production for the entire campaign. Howard will hope to enjoy a bigger role in 2020, but his usage during his first…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 30 at 9:52pm by Rotowire.com
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Pedestrian season continues
Howard caught three of seven targets for 46 yards in Saturday's 23-20 loss to the Texans.
Analysis: Howard failed to step up with the team missing its top two wide receivers -- Mike Evans and Chris Godwin -- to hamstring injuries. The 2017 first-rounder has been one of this season's biggest disappointments, topping 50 yards only three times all season while scoring just one touchdown. Howard will finish his season against the Falcons in Week 17.
Published: Sat, Dec 21 at 2:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Solid effort in Week 15 win
Howard secured four of eight targets for 46 yards in the Buccaneers' 38-17 win over the Lions on Sunday.
Analysis: Howard checked in second only to Chris Godwin (hamstring) and Breshad Perriman in receptions for the afternoon, and the third-year tight end actually paced the team in targets. Howard now has 13 receptions over his last three games, as he's enjoying a steady role that's now poised to grow further if Godwin is forced to miss the Week 16 game against the Texans.
Published: Sun, Dec 15 at 9:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Second consecutive strong game
Howard secured four of five targets for 73 yards in the Buccaneers' 38-35 win over the Colts on Sunday.
Analysis: Howard was second only to Chris Godwin in receiving yardage, with the tight end's tally his highest of the season. The athletic third-year pro may finally be hitting his stride in coach Bruce Arians' offense, as he's now brought in nine of 11 targets for 134 yards over the last two games combined. Howard could be in for extra volume moving forward if Mike Evans (hamstring) is out for any amount of time, which seems highly likely.
Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 3:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Comes to life in Week 13 win
Howard secured five of six targets for 61 yards in the Buccaneers' 28-11 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.
Analysis: Howard co-led the Buccaneers in receptions with another unlikely candidate in Breshad Perriman, setting a new season high in catches in the process. The third-year tight end was coming off a two-game, Week 11-12 stretch during which he'd managed just one reception (on three targets) for 10 yards, so Sunday's surge was surprising to say the least. Howard hasn't really been able to piece together consecutive above-average performances yet this season, an unfavorable trend he'll look to avoid Week…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 1 at 3:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Another forgettable performance
Howard brought in one of two targets for 10 yards in the Buccaneers' 35-22 win over the Falcons on Sunday.
Analysis: The final line was an all-too-familiar theme for Howard and his fantasy managers, with the third-year tight end recording his third game with one or zero catches on the campaign. Howard offered a glimmer of hope two games ago versus the Cardinals with a 4-47-1 line, but the subsequent pair of contests have essentially served to negate any momentum he may have briefly generated. Given how late it is into the season, there have to be serious doubts about coach Bruce Arians' willingness to…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 24 at 6:59pm by Rotowire.com
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Causes interception on only target
Howard failed to haul in his only target in Sunday's 34-17 loss to the Saints, instead tipping it into the air, resulting in a New Orleans interception.
Analysis: Coming off an encouraging 4-47-1 line Week 10, Howard greatly underwhelmed in the division loss and was directly responsible for the first of Jameis Winston's four interceptions. Howard appeared to have secured a short pass at the Buccaneers' 17-yard line before somehow causing it to become airborne and landing into in the waiting arms of Saints linebacker Demario Davis to set New Orleans up with excellent field position. Howard's disappointing season is seemingly a microcosm of the team's as a…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 7:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets into end zone Week 10
Howard brought in four of seven targets for 47 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 30-27 win over the Cardinals on Sunday.
Analysis: The high-upside but frequently underwhelming tight end enjoyed one of his better performances of the season, scoring his first touchdown of the campaign and also recording a 26-yard grab that served as his second longest of the campaign. Howard's seven targets marked a new high-water mark for him in 2019 as well, and perhaps this performance will serve as a launching pad for better production down the stretch. Howard will look to build on Sunday's effort versus the Saints in a Week 11 NFC South…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 10 at 11:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Ready to play
Howard is cleared to play in Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Howard averaged three targets and 2.2 catches over the first six weeks of the season, before missing the past two games with a hamstring injury. The workload concerns are still present, but he has a nice setup for Week 10 efficiency against a Cardinals defense that's given up a league-high 810 yards and nine touchdowns to tight ends.
Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 9:18am by Rotowire.com
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Practices without limitations
Howard (hamstring) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Howard missed Tampa Bay's last two contests due to a lingering hamstring issue, but his full workout Wednesday should clear the way for him to play Sunday against the Cardinals. The 24-year-old hasn't been a strong fantasy option this season -- he's been held without a touchdown and has logged just one game above 50 receiving yards on the year -- but matchups with Arizona have proven highly favorable for tight ends throughout 2019.
Published: Wed, Nov 6 at 1:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected back in Week 10
Coach Bruce Arians relayed that Howard (hamstring) should be back in action this coming Sunday against the Cardinals, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
Analysis: Howard's looming return comes at an opportune juncture, with fellow tight end Antony Auclair having suffered a toe injury in Week 9 action. With just 13 catches (on 18 targets) for 176 yards in six games to date, Howard has been a fantasy disappointment, but with the Bucs currently on a four-game slide, perhaps the team's coaching staff will make an effort to get the 2017 first-rounder more involved in the passing game in the weeks ahead.
Published: Mon, Nov 4 at 10:44am by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out for Seattle matchup
Howard (hamstring) won't play in Sunday's game against the Seahawks, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
Analysis: Speaking to the media Friday, coach Bruce Arians said Howard is the only player he's ready to rule out for Sunday. The tight end will miss a second straight game, leaving extra snaps for Cameron Brate (ribs), Antony Auclair and Tanner Hudson, though Brate also is battling an injury. Howard's continued absence from practice casts doubt on his availability for Week 10 against the Cardinals.
Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 9:17am by Rotowire.com
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Likely out again this week
Howard (hamstring) worked out on the side at Friday's practice and is unlikely to play Sunday against the Seahawks, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Howard didn't take part in the Buccaneers' first two practice sessions of the week, and it's looking like he won't get in any work Friday, either. With Howard tracking toward a second straight absence in Week 9, Cameron Brate (ribs) -- if healthy -- would be the top candidate for another start at tight end.
Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 8:12am by Rotowire.com
More news and analysis available atNFL.com
- Tom Brady locates O.J. Howard for TE's first TD of 2021Thu, Oct 14 at 5:37pm
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Up Next
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Up Next- Tom Brady locates O.J. Howard for TE's first TD of 2021Thu, Oct 14 at 5:37pm
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady locates tight end O.J. Howard for TE's first touchdown of 2021.
- Tom Brady talks about where Bucs can improve in 2021Tue, Sep 7 at 10:27am
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady addresses the media ahead of his team's matchup with the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday to open the 2021 season.
- Titans vs. Buccaneers highlights | Preseason Week 2Sat, Aug 21 at 8:23pm
Watch the highlights of the 2021 preseason Week 2 matchup between the Tennessee Titans and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Top 15 fantasy plays | Week 4Tue, Oct 6 at 12:33pm
Here are the top 15 highest scoring fantasy plays from Week 4 of the 2020 season.
- Garafolo: O.J. Howard's season likely over with Achilles injuryMon, Oct 5 at 11:33am
NFL Network's Mike Garafolo says that Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end O.J. Howard's season is likely over with an Achilles injury.
- Palmer: Four skill players who will need to step up without O.J. Howard, Chris GodwinMon, Oct 5 at 10:58am
NFL Network's James Palmer lists four skill players who will need to step up for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers without tight end O.J. Howard and wide receiver Chris Godwin.
- Chargers vs. Buccaneers highlights | Week 4Sun, Oct 4 at 1:26pm
Watch the best moments from the Week 4 matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- Tom Brady rips seam throw to O.J. Howard for impressive 28-yard TDSun, Oct 4 at 12:17pm
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady completes a 28-yard touchdown pass to tight end O.J. Howard.
- Burleson: The Bucs pass-catcher who could 'make some plays' in Week 4Fri, Oct 2 at 7:43am
The "Good Morning Football" crew discusses the injured Tampa Bay Buccaneers WRs.
- Top catches of September 2020Tue, Sep 29 at 3:20pm
Check out the top catches from the NFL during September of 2020.