Billy Schrauth Focused on Toughness, Energy and Growth in Bucs Rookie Minicamp
Billy Schrauth wasn’t a man of many words during his time at Notre Dame.
Not much has changed in five months as Schrauth starts his NFL journey with Tampa Bay.
The 5th round pick spoke with the media following practice and it was all business for the 6-foot-5, 310-pounder.
“Impressive,” Schrauth said of the Buccaneers offense. “Fired up to be a part of it and hopefully help the ball club keep winning ball games.”
Rookie minicamp is a small taste of professional life. There are no pads and not much physicality. Yet, Schrauth has noticed one significant change in his surroundings.
“I've been in the North my whole career, so it's warm down here,” laughed Schrauth. “I don't think that's a secret. I think football is football. I love the game. All those guys in that locker room love it. Just grateful to be a part of it.”
Schrauth is no stranger to NFL-style practices, so while he may not yet be able to showcase the full physical side of his game, the Wisconsin native knows exactly what he can sharpen during this phase of the offseason.
“Eyes, your hands, and your feet,” stated Schrauth when asked what he can work on. “You can always kind of fine-tune those things and just keep getting better technically.”
Even with plenty of experience under his belt, Schrauth understands his game is still evolving. One area of his game that already stands out is the energy he brings to the building every day.
“I'm going to bring energy to the guys,” explained Schrauth. “They're going to feel me. I always try to give dudes energy and not take it. I think that's number one.
“I think there's always room to improve. X's and O's wise, physically getting stronger. This position's built on strength and power and I think always improving that.”
Notre Dame felt that edge throughout Schrauth’s career in South Bend. Injuries were a recurring obstacle, but the former Irish captain routinely battled through them and refused to leave the field, including during the 2025 matchup against USC.
That toughness resonated inside Notre Dame’s locker room and Schrauth hopes to bring the same mentality to Tampa Bay.
“I think it's in everything,” Schrauth stated. “I think it's when you're in the locker room. It's certainly when you're on the field in the fourth quarter and things are getting tough. I think it's a way of going about your life and trying to be an energy giver.”
Leadership will also follow Schrauth to his new home, although he made it clear he isn’t trying to force anything early in his NFL career.
“I think just being yourself is number one,” said Schrauth. “I ain't got to try to prove anything. I can be myself and I take a lot of comfort in that.”
Want the latest scoop on the Fighting Irish? Sign up for our newsletter and become an ISD Premium Subscriber: Sign Up for ISD
Notre Dame Fighting Irish Carhartt x '47 Unisex Hitch Adjustable Hat
