TAMPA, Fla. — The 10 Tampa Bay team goes one-on-one with a Buccaneers player every week. In this week's edition of "The One Buc," sports reporter David Schiele speaks with rookie defensive back Tykee Smith.
The former Georgia Bulldog has earned plenty of playing time since being selected in the third round of this year's NFL Draft. His 33 total tackles are tied for third-most on the team. He also grabbed his first career interception in last week's win against the Saints.
“He’s been doing a phenomenal job, especially picking up our defense. You know, it’s loaded. He’s doing a great job," safety Antoine Winfield Jr. said.
"He probably gets the most veteran treatment out of all the rookies because he doesn’t make as many mistakes as everybody else," head coach Todd Bowles said.
Smith's attributes the fast start to his career to his time at Georgia, where he won back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022.
"[Georgia] prepared me tremendously well. The competition there prepares you for this level," he said.
However, he was not prepared for the amount of free time he has as a pro. With no classes to attend, Smith spends most of his time away from football on the phone with friends and family and spending time with his daughter, Zyla. He'd also like to go fishing in the near future.
The Bucs are 4-2 this season and host the Baltimore Ravens on Monday Night Football next week. The team faces a challenge in Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. Tampa Bay is 0-2 against the reigning NFL MVP.
You can watch "The One Buc" every Thursday at 5 p.m. and Saturday at 11 p.m. on 10 Tampa Bay. You can also watch 10 Tampa Bay's weekly Buccaneers preview show, The Blitz, at 8:30 a.m. Sunday's. You can also view the episode on 10 Tampa Bay+ and our YouTube Page on Saturdays.