Is Bucs Backup QB Trask ready for playtime?

There has been much debate about the Bucs’ Choice second round 2021, quarterback Kyle Trask in the past two years. From the rivalry between Florida and the State of Florida, to a fraction of the fan base who feel Trask was a wasted choice, to those who hope he can be Tom Brady’s heir. Still, there hasn’t been an opportunity to see what he can do in the regular season.

That may change on Sunday when Tampa Bay takes on Atlanta in Week 18. Bucs head coach Todd Bowles was asked if Trask, who has been inactive for 35 straight games, would be active for their games against the Falcons.

“He can get dressed,” Bowles said. “He has a good chance to get dressed.”

While the Bucs will roll out their healthy starters on Sunday, it is unknown how long they will play. With Tampa Bay closing out the NFC South, there’s not much left to play for other than a winning record. Guaranteed a playoff home game, the team may feel risky and a club already injured for a full game is not worth it. If the Bucs can jump to an early lead or vice versa, starters can be drawn.

Bowles had already said that Gabbert would get the scoop for Brady, but Trask could be lining up for snaps next. It would already be Trask’s first game as an active NFL quarterback on game days, but a chance to play would come.

Is Bucs Backup QB Trask ready?

While Trask has been inactive for every Bucs game, that doesn’t mean the coaching staff doesn’t think he’s ready when he’s called up. On Wednesday, Bowles applauded the young quarterback’s determination to work on his craft and put himself in the best possible position.

“Since he’s been here, he works alone every time I look out my window,” Bowles said. “He has almost the greatest determination, toughness and inner strength than anyone I’ve seen. A young guy comes out – he prepares every day. When his time comes, he will be ready, because I see him working on it every day. He has inner resilience, he has inner strength and he has the drive and will to win. If you add that up and get the chance, I think he’s going to take advantage of it.”

This isn’t the first time Trask has waited in the wings for his chance. He didn’t start high school and was behind star quarterback D’Eriq King. Then he had to bide his time in college with the Florida Gators behind Felipe Franks, who is now on a tight end at Atlanta. After two years of development behind the scenes, Trask will be excited and ready for this opportunity.

“Yes, it would be very exciting,” Trask said. “I have not heard anything, but I will say that if I get the chance I will be ready to go. I’ll just prepare like I’ve done every week for the past two seasons. I know the game plan, I know what I’m doing and I’ll be very excited if I get the chance.