Only a week away from the start of NFL free agency as we will finally find out what direction the Bucs are going to go in. One main topic has been the safety position and will the team go after FA Tony Jefferson who right now is the best safety available. However, with the Chiefs resigning Eric Berry to a big contract, I expect that Tony Jefferson is going to command top dollar which might push the Bucs away from targeting him. So with that in mind I have a player that the Bucs could target instead and would come at a much cheaper rate.
That would be Patriots S Duron Harmon who I think would be a great fit for this Bucs defense and could add much needed depth at the safety position. Harmon, 26 was drafted by the Patriots in the third round of the 2013 draft and so far has been a key contributor to their defense and special teams.
This past season, Harmon got on the field more and was a big part of the team's superbowl run including starting all three post season games. Harmon is a good athlete who has 4.5 speed along with good size at 6'1 205lbs and has quickness to make plays on the ball. Harmon is a ballhawk with 7 interceptions and 12 pass breakups which is outstanding for only having 12 starts in his career.
Harmon is versatile as he plays that nickel safety role and can play deep middle or play in the slot if need be. I think with the opportunity to start in Tampa, he could really blossom into a big time playmaking safety. He is ranked 11th on pro football focus free agent rankings and is ahead of Tony Jefferson which is high praise.
Harmon would be a good value pick up for the Bucs and has already won two superbowls so he knows what winning looks like. With the Bucs only having two safeties on the roster right now, look for them to add one in free agency and the draft. Adding a playmaker like Harmon would be a good start and would fit well in Mike Smith's scheme.
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