‘Nelly’ is back…
On Tuesday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured a key piece of their defensive front by re-signing outside linebacker Anthony Nelson to a two-year, $10 million contract, with a $12 million max, per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
Pass rusher Anthony Nelson back to the #Bucs at two years and $10M with a max of $12M, per source.
Versatile defender back with Todd Bowles. pic.twitter.com/3uUBNIy0fL
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 11, 2025
Nelson, a 2019 fourth-round pick from Iowa, has been a reliable rotational player for Tampa Bay, contributing 11 sacks and 107 tackles across six seasons — not to mention room being instrumental against the run. His best campaign came in 2022, with 5.5 sacks, showcasing his value as a pass-rushing complement to a defense that features defensive tackle Vita Vea. The move ensures continuity for a Bucs defensive front that ranked among the league’s best in 2024, allowing just 19.2 points per game.
At 28, Nelson’s familiarity with Todd Bowles’ system, made him a priority to retain. With free agency heating up, Tampa Bay’s decision to lock in Nelson underscores their strategy of maintaining depth and stability as they aim for a fifth straight NFC South crown.