Rookie Cornerback Don Gardner Intercepts Logan Woodside

Cornerback Don Gardner turned some heads in the Bucs preseason game against the Titans. The game was all but exciting for Buc fans, but they did get some relief in the fourth quarter from their defense. The rookie made an impressive interception on a deep ball from Titans Quarterback Logan Woodside.

Gardner, who is a rookie from South Dakota State, was an undrafted free agent. He was recently activated from the physically unable to perform list. In a recent interview Gardner said, “Seeing that highlight on ESPN is a surreal feeling, but know it was just one game. His mindset is that every day he has to show up and be better than he was yesterday.”

The shift from college to pro ball is a big adjustment. Gardner claims that the change of speed was the biggest difference for him when he joined the pro league. Veteran players, such as Carlton Davis, have played a major role in the transition for Gardner and have helped him tremendously throughout the season with technique adjustments.

Although the interception did not result in points on the scoreboard, it did give Tampa Bay fans a second of excitement and showcase what to expect from the rookie cornerback.

NFL preseason: Bucs CB Don Gardner makes diving INT vs. Titans (usatoday.com)

HIGHLIGHT: Logan Woodside Intercepted by Bucs Don Gardner (buccaneers.com). (week 2 of 2022 pre-season).

Other articles

USA Today article: Bucs activate CB Don Gardner from Physically Unable to Perform List (usatoday.com) (July 2022)

WATCH: Full interview with Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cornerback Don Gardner – Bucs Nation, Dec 28, 2022