Thursday, March 3, 2016

Free Agency Frenzy: Wide Receivers




Yesterday, I started my free agency preview with the running backs and which ones I feel best fit with the Bucs. Today I want to discuss the wide receiver position and who might be potential targets for the Bucs. The Bucs have two really good starters in Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson, but after those two the rest are inconsistent and inexperience. Here are my top 5 targets who I feel could provide a boost to the receiving corps.

1. Jermaine Kearse, 26 - 49 rec 685 yds 14.0 avg 5 tds

Kearse has been getting better every season, and was a quality starter for the Seahawks last season. Kearse brings big play ability, has downfield speed, and can return kicks as well. Would start in the slot for the Bucs and could share snaps on the outside with Vincent Jackson at times.

2. Travis Benjamin, 26 - 68 rec 966 yds 14.2 avg 5 tds

Benjamin is pure speed and loves to run the go route. Provides big play ability in the passing game and the return game as well. Had a breakout season in 2015 and for the most part was a reliable target for the Browns.  Will have the occasional focus drops, which is why he is not number one on this list. Much like Kearse would be a big boost to the Bucs receiving corps.

3. Andre Holmes, 27 -  14 rec 201 yds 14.4 avg 4 tds

Holmes is a sleeper target that I think could make a lot of sense. Now his 2015 season doesn't look impressive, but you go back to 2014 when he started 13 games, and the production is pretty good. He had 47 rec 693 yds 14.7 avg 4 tds. He has great size and speed standing 6'4 210, and he could be a solid slot receiver and spot starter for the Bucs.

4. Riley Cooper, 28 - 21 rec 327 yds 15.6 avg 2 tds

Similar to Holmes, not great production in 2013, but could be a good value addition. Cooper was outstanding in 2013, where he average 17.8 yards per catch along with 8 tds. Cooper still has deep threat speed, and is core special teams player as well. 

5. Roddy White, 34 - 43 rec 506 yds 11.8 avg 1 tds

White is on the downside of his career and not sure how much is left in the tank. Roddy White would bring a veteran presence and a winning attitude. He is comfortable with the Bucs offense since Dirk Koetter was the Falcons offensive coordinator from 2010-2014. Wouldn't be a bad signing, since Roddy did do very well under coach Koetter.

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