The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made a quick escape ahead of Hurricane Milton’s onslaught in the Tampa Bay area. As they gather in New Orleans to prepare for their upcoming game against the Saints, there is a sense of unease among the team.
Coach Todd Bowles emphasized the team’s priority of ensuring the safety of every player, coach, and their families. Despite the successful evacuation, concerns linger about the fate of their homes and neighbors. “Everything went smoothly. We got the team out, we got their families out, we got the pets out and everything else. Family is the most important thing,” Bowles said. “If you can get your family out and get them safe, everything else can be replaced.”
Players’ and coaches’ loved ones have accompanied them to New Orleans and are safe. Bowles highlighted the relief felt by the team having their families close by, allowing them to focus on football amidst the chaos. “Most of them have their families here with them, so that’s a big relief for them, and they’re able to focus on football. We understand that the things we do in football are small in the game of life and how the hurricane is going to affect people,” Bowles mentioned.
The Buccaneers are utilizing Tulane’s football facility for their practice sessions this week. Despite the challenges posed by the hurricane, Bowles reassured that the team will be prepared for their game on Sunday against the Saints.
However, the uncertainty looms over the team’s future in Tampa. While there have been no reports of damage to the Buccaneers’ practice facility or stadium, Tropicana Field, home to the Tampa Bay Rays, has suffered significant damage. With their next game scheduled for Monday night back in Tampa on October 21, the team is unsure if the city will be ready to host the game by then.
Bowles acknowledged the possibility of the Buccaneers having to find a temporary home outside Tampa beyond their upcoming game in New Orleans. “We’re talking about it. We hope we don’t have to. We’ll see what happens in the next couple days and we’ll adjust accordingly,” Bowles stated.