Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeat New York Jets 24-16 in preseason opener

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the New York Jets 24-16 in their preseason opener at MetLife Stadium. The game featured several notable individual performances. For the Buccaneers, rookie undrafted free agent Ayden Garnes stood out with three tackles and a pick-six, though head coach Todd Bowles noted a need for improvement in his tackling consistency.

For the Jets, rookie quarterback Cade Klubnik made his professional debut, completing a 21-yard pass to Garrett Wilson. Defensive player Mory Bamba also impressed with five tackles and four passes defended. However, veteran backup Bailey Zappe struggled, throwing two interceptions during the contest.

In separate preseason activity, the New Orleans Saints and Jacksonville Jaguars held a joint practice. The session featured a reunion for running back Travis Etienne Jr., who signed with the Saints as a free agent after five seasons with the Jaguars. Etienne, a native of Louisiana, was warmly greeted by former teammates and coaching staff during the practice.