Tykee Smith takes on the Bucs defense and “does a phenomenal job”

Bucs defensive back Tykee Smith already seems way ahead of schedule in adapting to the NFL and integrating into Tampa Bay's defense. He did such a good job that he the next star of the defense.

Smith is looking to carve out a role as a nickelback in the team's starting lineup and has received praise not only from head coach Todd Bowles, but also from a handful of the team's defensive backs who have worked with him.

While it was a rough week for the Bucs secondary during their joint practices with the Jaguars in Jacksonville, Smith was one of the few who kept rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. in check one-on-one, which was a difficult task. He has be beaten on a repeat on Thursday, but this time he outdid him by blocking the pass in the end zone.

He is still learning the ropes and will have his initial difficulties, but his teammates are already recognizing his progress and talent.

Antoine Winfield Jr. believes Tykee Smith is “doing a great job”

Bucs S Antoine Winfield Jr. Photo by: USA Today

When Bucs star safety Antoine Winfield Jr. speaks, people listen.

So when the All-Pro and team captain speaks positively about the progress of third-round pick Tykee Smith in training camp, this should be taken as an indication that Smith can quickly develop into an important starter and cog in the defense.

“He's done a phenomenal job, especially strengthening our defense,” Winfield said. “You know, it's loaded. He does a great job. He runs with the opposition and gets things like that, so he's a quick learner.”

Versatile defensive back Tavierre Thomas is getting to know Todd Bowles' stout defense first hand after signing with the Bucs as a free agent this offseason. Thomas considers Smith's college experience invaluable, having already competed with the best of the best.

“Tykee is a rookie, but it seems like he's played in the NFL before,” Thomas said last week. “He knows defense, he played defense at Georgia. I know there's a difference, everyone says the NFL is different than college or whatever, but when you go to a big school like that, you're going against all the top guys.

Bucs DB Tykee Smith – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

“You're going to be competing against the same guys you've always competed against…most of the guys you've played against your whole life. Once you get here, you just have to do what you've always done, learn from the veterans and then just go from there.”

Safety Kaevon Merriweather also spoke out this week and sees a bright future for Smith.

“[He’s] a very smart football player,” Smith said. “I remember at Georgia, he played at a very high level. I think he played in two or three national championships, so he was on the big stage, so I think it's no difference or change for him to get to this level.” [He’s] just a very smart football player, very talented, and he definitely has a very bright future ahead of him.”

After playing well in the season opener against the Bengals, ranking second on the Bucs with five total tackles, Tykee Smith will look to maintain his physical style and playmaking ability on Saturday night. If he can do that, it will only cement his status in a secondary that is filled with difficult squad decisions.