TAMPA, Fla. — With Payne Durham nursing an injury, seventh-round pick Devin Culp suited up for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the first time.
He only earned one snap in the game, but the 24-year-old out of Spokane, Washington finally achieved his dream of playing in the NFL.
"I got to first and foremost give all the glory to God. He has used me as a vessel to give hope and faith, not only to my family, but my community as well," he told 10 Tampa Bay.
Culp is one of the many Washington Huskies in the Buccaneers locker room, including his best friend Jalen McMillan. The wide receiver was selected four rounds earlier than Culp in the same draft class.
"It has made this transition into the league a whole lot easier for me. Coming in, having some familiar faces around helps with my comfortability. Having a couple of extra Dawgs in your corner never hurts," he added.
Culp played a key role on the 2023 Washington Huskies team that lost in the National Championship to Michigan. Culp's quarterback on that team was Tampa product Michael Penix Jr.
During a time when collegiate athletes hit the Transfer Portal often, Culp never followed suit. Despite three coaching changes during his six years at Washington, he stuck with the program.
"It teaches you how to be resilient, adaptable and stay open-minded," Culp said.
Culp is a firm believer in loyalty, something he learned from his mother, Pia.
"My mom is my best friend. I truly believe I wouldn't be here without her," he added.
Culp and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium. If Tampa Bay wins, the team will earn sole possession of first place in the NFC South.
