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NFL picks: Catch a rising star with Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka against 49ers

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LAS VEGAS — On the eve of the season, we highlighted rookie receiver Emeka Egbuka as a likely keen complement to veteran targets Chris Godwin and Mike Evans for Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield.

Instead, Egbuka is an instant star. He’s the league’s fourth-ranked catcher with 445 yards. His 17.8 yards-per-catch average ranks fifth.

He’s the first NFL rookie with at least 25 receptions and 400 receiving yards, plus five touchdowns, in his first five games.

“He’s well-rounded and not just in football, in life,” Mayfield told Buccaneers.com. “He’s grounded, genuine in everything he does.