By Jim Carchidi
April 3, 2026
As Orlando remains in celebration mode after NFL owners unanimously approved plans to host Jacksonville Jaguars’ 2027 home games at Camping World Stadium, a bid for more NFL games may be on the horizon as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare to push for a stadium overhaul.
Setting the stage
With its last set of renovations dating back 8 years, Buccaneers owners believe Raymond James Stadium is due for an upgrade. Photo courtesy of Tampa Bay Buccaneers
A Tampa Bay Times report states Bucs leadership will soon meet with the Tampa Sports Authority to discus renovations to Raymond James Stadium.
The most recent upgrades to the 28-year-old venue were completed in 2018 and included new video screens, luxury suites, and concourse additions; all totaling $160 million. More recent NFL stadium projects in Nashville, Buffalo, Las Vegas, and Jacksonville’s upcoming “stadium of the future” involve billions of dollars in innovations to the fan experience and sustainable elements. Additionally, the inclusion of domes and protective coverings improve the prospects of hosting a Super Bowl.
A new slate of RJS upgrades is expected to push the $1 billion mark, but the team has an argument for the price tag. As with the current Camping World Stadium project, the reason to renovate is the year-over-year economic impact of hosting several major sports and entertainment events. And since the Tampa project would require a plan for temporary home game relocation, the solution is just a short drive away.
Been there, done that
The in-progress upgrades to Camping World Stadium and Orlando's familiarity with the NFL bidding process would play well in an attempt to land more regular season games. Image courtesy of Florida Citrus Sports
In April of last year, Orange County commissioners approved a $10 million bid to host Jaguars' 2027 regular season games with an additional $1 million for the post-season. The bid could be used as a template to host the Bucs and streamline the effort.
Orlando’s projected return from hosting the Jaguars’ 2027 season is about $20 million per game. A figure that includes the number of fans traveling in and boosting local tourism revenue. The final economic impact numbers could further support local government approval for another bid.
Key endorsements
Jaguars team owner Shad Khan speaks to the media after NFL owners unanimously approved the temporary relocation to Orlando. Livestream screen grab
The $400 million investment in Camping World Stadium improvements, expected by the spring of 2027, was a huge factor in bringing the Jags to Orlando while their stadium is renovated. In his comments to the media, Jaguars team owner Shad Khan expressed his thanks to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for their support in endorsing the relocation plan. The Bucs’ endorsement of Orlando and the roughly 90-minute drive time from Tampa bode well for a possible Camping World residency should the RJS renovation become reality.
The team is expected to meet with the Tampa Sports Authority during the week of April 6. And Orlando will be watching.
Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.
About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.
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