What's The Game Plan

Day one of free agency has come and gone and the Bucs came away with only one signing in J.R. Sweezy. Sweezy seems to be a nice addition the the offensive line and displays an non stop motor and nastiness you have to like in an interior lineman, but the biggest story of the day was the disappointment of Bucs fans wanting Licht to spend big.

We all get caught up in the hype of the possibility of getting some highly rated player but for that to happen you have to throw out the big bucks that will most likely put you into cap hell. Licht has stuck to his principals which he stated in early February that he will be "selective and strategic" in free agency, Per Rick Stroud of TampaBayTimes.

"We'll be selective and strategic," Licht said Thursday night. "We don't want to put ourselves into a position where if you take the wrong guy and give him too much money, it can disrupt your team. I've said since Day 1, we are going to build through the draft. And from Day 1, the most success we've had is with draft picks.
"We still believe the best way for us to go is to draft and develop players. You can't think you're going to put yourself over the top by signing these high-dollar guys."

Building through the draft has been Licht's biggest strength and it looks like he is sticking to it. Licht is being patient and taking what the market will give him. Now that the big money free agents are off the board maybe Licht will look for the more affordable guys that can still bring production ,in Robert Ayers or Chris Long. Licht has made it a point to show his value of you is all he will give and not a cent over.

Chris Long Has Respect For Sweezy

Shortly after the Bucs signed guard J.R Sweezy, there were a lot of negative reactions from fans and overreactions after pro football focus said he was the 9th worst guard in the league last year. Former Bucs tight end Anthony Becht defended Sweezy and even went on to say its a upgrade for the Bucs.

No disrespect to them... The #Bucs upgraded the position today https://t.co/Iw2weDVVjC

— Anthony Becht (@Anthony_Becht) March 9, 2016

The conversation even drew the attention of former Rams defensive end Chris Long, who has gone against Sweezy mulitple times, and had nothing but positives things about the signing.

@Anthony_Becht @PFF I think he's pretty good

— Chris Long (@JOEL9ONE) March 10, 2016

This shows the Bucs are doing their homework, even though some fans are upset just because the team hasn't signed every free agent available. Chris Long even went on to say Sweezy is the enforcer type and should do very well here for the Bucs. Speaking of Chris Long, whom is one of realbucstalk Dline targets would be a very good fit for this team and could provide some pass rush. Anthony Becht seemed to agree as he intently mention how nice it is here in Tampa.

.@JOEL9ONE by way buddy weathers awfully nice down here😜

— Anthony Becht (@Anthony_Becht) March 10, 2016

This is just day one of free agency, and the fun is only getting started here at realbucstalk. Stay tuned!

Chris Long an Option

Just yesterday Chris Long was released by the St. Louis Rams after 8 seasons with the organization. With the Bucs so desperate for pass rush help would they turn to a 30 year old vet who amassed 50.5 sacks his first 6 years but has been injured the past two? Long took to Instagram to voice his appreciation for his time with the Rams and also gave reason to believe he's ready to get back to his usual production.

Just heard that I'm about to be unemployed. I just want to personally and humbly thank the city of St. Louis again for all your support over 8 years. I love y'all so much for sticking with me through the ups and downs. I also want to thank our LA fans, and although I may never join you in SoCal, just know that I'll always appreciate you. Bottom line is- this is a production business. No excuses, the last two years have been sh*t. It's been painful to experience because I care deeply about my performance and my responsibility to my teammates. Before the last two years I'm very proud of what I was able to accomplish in St. Louis. I'm not surprised, but it doesn't make it any easier to leave your family. I look forward to the next chapter. Hungry and a lot to prove all over again. First I'm gonna have a beer. Wishing it shook out differently but eternally grateful, C Long

 Long seems to be a professional that understands how the NFL works and is ready to get his performance back on track. Given that his production has dropped greatly because of past knee and ankle injuries his price tag won't be as high as the top defensive ends in free agency.

He would be a perfect pick up given the right price. He has shown production in a 4-3 scheme and brings plenty of knowledge and leadership to a d-line that badly needs it. Theres no doubt in my mind the Bucs will address the edge rush position this offseason wether it be in free agency or the draft and Jason Licht has shown he isn't shy about picking up a veteran as he did with Cherlius Gosder at right tackle. Production is key, so Chris long enjoy your beer and know that the Bucs will be calling very soon.