TAMPA — Rookie cornerback Ayden Garnes announced his arrival with a 47-yard interception return for a touchdown, the longest by a Buccaneers player since preseason tracking data became available in 2017, as Tampa Bay rolled past the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in the preseason opener.
Garnes’ pick-six gave the Bucs their first touchdown of the 2026 preseason and set the tone for a defensive performance that produced four sacks and two interceptions. Safety Rashad Wisdom intercepted Jets quarterback Bailey Zappe shortly after Garnes’ score, and defensive lineman David Walker collapsed the pocket on both turnovers to speed up the quarterback’s reads.
The pass rush was relentless. Jack Pyburn recorded two sacks, while Elijah Roberts and Damarion Williams each added one, giving Tampa Bay’s front four sacks on the night.
Quarterback Jalon Daniels took over in the second half and completed 10 of 15 attempts for 111 yards. He rushed three times for nine yards, including a one-yard touchdown up the middle in the fourth quarter to cap the victory. Daniels showcased improvisation and tight-window throws with velocity throughout his action.
Running back Josh Williams extended Tampa Bay’s lead to 17-3 in the third quarter with a 12-yard touchdown rush, making a quick cut inside the tackle before accelerating to the end zone.
The Bucs are scheduled to continue the preseason slate next week as the roster evaluation period intensifies ahead of final cuts.