Who is Connor Bazelak? Meet the Buccaneers QB who could possibly start tonight

With Baker Mayfield sitting and veteran backup Jake Browning injured ahead of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' preseason opener tonight, Connor Bazelak could be in line to be the starting quarterback. Bazelak and undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels would get all the reps against the New York Jets if Browning doesn't play. It could potentially be the biggest opportunity of Bazelak's young career. After going undrafted out of Bowling Green, Bazelak beat out Kyle Trask for the Buccaneers' third-string quarterback job in 2025, completing 32 of his 46 preseason passes for 261 yards and a touchdown. Bazelak never saw regular-season action, however, as Teddy Bridgewater was Tampa Bay's backup to Mayfield. Bazelak had a well-traveled college career. He began his journey at Missouri, where he spent three seasons and was the primary starter for two. Bazelak proceeded to spend a season at Indiana and his final two at Bowling Green. Across 58 college games, Bazelak threw for 12,349 yards and 66 touchdowns to 39 interceptions. At 6-foot-3, 225 pounds, Bazelak has the frame you'd want from an NFL quarterback, plus he has plenty of experience. His athletic ability and arm talent are why he undrafted, though. Bazelak has a prime opportunity tonight to prove to the Buccaneers he can overcome those limitations, whether Browning suits up or not. This article originally appeared on For The Win: Who is Connor Bazelak? Meet the Buccaneers QB who could possibly start tonight