Will the Bucs Find a Return Man This Year?

The main topic of discussion this off season for the Bucs has been about improving the defense and rightfully so as that unit was putrid to say the least, but what about special teams? I think its time for the Bucs to get a legit return man, someone who can put fear into teams when they have to punt or to kickoff. Last years returner Bobby Rainey was decent, but was inconsistent and really doesn't provide the explosiveness and speed needed to pose a threat. In a previous post, I had mention that the Bucs should look to sign pending free agent wide receiver Jermaine Kearse, who can add speed to the slot receiver position as well as handle the return duties. However, Kearse might be a little expensive as he is looking for starter type money.

The good news is there are quality options in the upcoming draft which the more effective and cheaper option for the Bucs. I have two favorites in the draft, whom both could instantly make an impact in the return game for the Bucs. The first one is cornerback Cyrus Jones out of Alabama, who is an explosive athlete and displays great instincts in the return game. Jones had a breakout season in 2015 as a returner, taking 4 punts back for touchdowns which is just outstanding. Plus Jones is a pretty decent corner as well and could be a slot corner or starter down the road. Jones is projected to go somewhere in the 5th to 7th rounds. 

The second favorite is Texas Tech receiver Jakeem Grant, who is just electric as a player and brings some real juice to the field. Although he is only 5'7 168, he brings toughness and shiftiness for his team, and is always a threat to score with the ball in his hands. Grant has put up respectable numbers during his time with Texas Tech, and could end up being a pretty good slot receiver in time. Grant was mainly kickoff returner, but took back 4 for touchdowns and had a career average of 25 yards per return. I think either Jones or Grant would be instant upgrades for a special teams unit that has been lacking explosiveness. This highlight of Grant is what the Bucs need, this is what I call speed.