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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are looking to build on their impressive 2010 campaign. Despite starting 10 rookies, an NFL record, the Buccaneers defied the odds and put together a solid 10-6 record narrowly missing the playoffs. The Bucs have talented young players galore but they have several weaknesses that must be addressed if they expect to compete during the upcoming season.
Defensive End:
What!? They drafted nothing but defensive linemen for the past two years. Da'Quan Bowers was considered the steal of the draft and first rounder Adrian Clayborn is a presumed starter for 2011. Why defensive end?
There’s a reason that Tampa used both their first and second round selections on defensive ends. Their pass rush was non-existent in 2010 and the organization lacks quality depth at either defensive end position. With the NFL lockout still in effect the Bucs excellent draft selections will have steep hill to climb in very little time. If you think about it, training camps are going to be over before these guys even figure out where the lockers rooms are much less learn the playbook. It’s unfortunate but a reality that many organizations are facing. As of now, the Bucs have two rookies who may or may not have the playbook plus the exact personnel from 2010 who recorded the NFL’s second fewest sacks (26). In our opinion, Tampa would be wise to free agents such as Giants Mathias Kiwanuka or Jets Shaun Ellis. Signing either of these vets immediately boosts Tampa’s pass rush while giving Clayborn and Bowers time to develop.
Interesting Note: the Bucs haven’t drafted a pro-bowl caliber defensive end since Lee Roy Selmon during their inaugural season in 1976.
Cornerback:
The Buccaneers will be in a real pinch if former first rounder, Aqib Talib, is suspended for his recent offseason arrests. Some reports suggest the Bucs are still pondering whether to continue their relationship or cut ties entirely with the former first round selection. Though the Bucs intentions may still be in the air, the NFL’s stance regarding violations of the “Player Conduct Policy” is very clear. If you the break the rules Roger Goodell will punish you. With that said, Talib is expected to miss games via suspension and this leaves Tampa’s secondary with little more than Ronde Barber and hope. Though Barber is always a presence teams will simply avoid his side of the field and exploit the rest of the Bucs young secondary. Adding a corner would address the Bucs immediate need with Talib’s likely absence while possibly addressing the long-term need of replacing the seemingly ageless Barber. Despite regressing in 2010, Jonathon Joseph comes to mind. The former South Carolina standout wants out of Cincinnati and would be a perfect fit in the Buccaneers aggressive defensive scheme.
Running Back:
I know what your thinking. The Buccaneers rookie LeGarrette Blount had a breakout season with over a thousand yards and six touchdowns. Why do they need another running back? Simply put, the Buccaneers have absolutely zero options beyond their rookie sensation. With Cadillac Williams not expected to resign the Bucs RB depth chart consist of fullback Earnest Graham and undrafted Kregg Lumpkin. Heaven forbid if Blount needs a play off, as the Bucs would be better off with a five wide zero back formation rather than trotting out their replacements. Adding an established veteran like DeAngelo Williams, Jerious Norwood, Darren Sproles, or Jason Snelling significantly improves the Buccaneers developing and very talented offense.
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