The Bucs could use upgrades at both safety positions as the players at that position were below average to say the least. Chris Conte and Bradley Mcdougald are both free agents this off-season and even though both played well at times during the season, it was just too inconsistent throughout the season. Now this could be due to the scheme which was all over the place and their was no consistency from the secondary coaches who relaying different messages too many times. However, the position needs more talent, it needs a playmaker back there, someone who can change the game.
Let me introduce you to Karl Joseph who is a hard hitting playmaking safety out of West Virgina where he has started every game for the Mountaineers. In his 4 year career at West Virgina, he put up 208 tackles, 9 ints, 10 pass breakups, and 1 sack which is just outstanding numbers. Last season, Joseph was off to a hot start, where he had 15 tackles and 5 ints in just four games, unfortunately Joseph would hurt his knee in practice the following week and was ruled out for the remaining of the season. Joseph before his injury was rated at mid round prospect due to his lack of size measuring in at 5'10 197lbs, but I see a Earl Thomas clone as both are similar size and just have a nose for the ball.
Joseph just has it all as he has range and brings big hitting ability to the table, plus he provides good character as he has been team captain the past two seasons. I think Joseph would provide an instant upgrade at the safety position for the Bucs, and would be that game changer on defense that this team desperately needs. This quote by Tony Gibson, Joseph's defensive coordinator says it all:
“In my 21 years of football – #8 has been the best leader and player that I've ever had the privilege of coaching,”That is strong praise for Karl Joseph and speaks volumes on who he is as a man and a player. Enjoy these highlights below.
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