Buccaneers embrace virtual reality technology for training camp

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced today that they'll be using EON Sports VR's SIDEKIQ software to help their quarterbacks, in addition to the obvious on-field work they receive. The Buccaneers have been looking at virtual reality tools for several months, specifically to help get Jameis Winston up to speed. It seems they've finally found what they're looking for.

"We are excited to be coming in on the front end of this new wave of technology that is designed to supplement the on-field and classroom work that our quarterbacks are already doing," Jason Licht said. "Obviously, there is no real substitute for being on the field when it comes to getting our players ready for game action. However, this virtual reality technology allows us to enhance the learning experience for our quarterbacks without requiring them to put in additional time on the practice fields."

I'm not sure this is actually going to make a difference, but it's good to see the Bucs taking some further steps to embrace modern technology. The Bucs were one of the first teams in the NFL to embrace digital playbooks, before Greg Schiano kicked out the tablets and replaced them with paper playbooks. Lovie Smith may have a reputation for being a traditional coach, but at least he's not that backwards.

Interestingly, the Bucs will allow youth football players to use the technology at Saturday's Cannonfire QB Clinic. You can register for that clinic here.