Look For Immediate Impact in The Draft

Bucs Gm Jason Licht is about to do his 4th NFL draft with the team and so far with his previous drafts he has done a great job of adding starters. The Bucs have added 8 starters via the draft the last three years, including key core players like Jameis Winston, Mike Evans, Ali Marpet, and Kwon Alexander. The Bucs have gotten back to building their team through the draft as Licht and his staff have done a great job so far. This upcoming draft is no different as the Bucs will look to add more rookies that can come in and have an immediate impact in year 1.

The Bucs have acquired players that are ready to play right away and make impact on day 1. For example, last years draft the Bucs got Vernon Hargreaves and Noah Spence whom both were ready to step onto the field on day 1 of training camp. Same goes for Mike Evans and Jameis Winston, as they were guys who just were pro ready. This is why in my opinion players like Christian McCaffrey, Dalvin Cook, Budda Baker, and Jabrill Peppers make tons of sense at 19. Players like John Ross, David Njoku, and Obi Melifonwu could be in play as well as they could provide day 1 impact.

I feel this team is ready to win now especially with the free agent signings of Desean Jackson and Chris Baker. Assuming Cook, Howard, and Davis are gone, a player like Christian McCaffrey or Budda Baker just makes so much sense to me. Both have the mental makeup to be great in this league plus the physical traits that are needed, and they can make an impact on day 1 for this team. One thing is for certain, Licht will stay true to his board and so far that has produce a pretty good track record. Again the draft is still 28 days away which means things can change, but as of now look for the Bucs to add someone who can make an impact on day 1.

New Culture is Making Tampa Attractive

This off-season so far has been pretty good for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the arrow is pointing up and the 2017 season could be a special one. The Bucs have kept their key free agents and in addition to that have added Desean Jackson, Chris Baker, and J.J Wilcox. With those additions, the Bucs are better football team and should be a legitimate playoff contender come this fall. The best part is all three guys wanted to be here and be apart of what this franchise is building coming off a 9-7 season last year. Bucs Gm Jason Licht said recently that players want to be here now and has been getting calls regarding other free agents who want to join as well which is a great sign. Is the culture finally changing in Tampa Bay?

Jason Licht on free agency: "It truly is, more than ever, guys wanted to be here. It makes it a lot easier when this is their top choice."

— Greg Auman (@gregauman) March 12, 2017

All signs are saying yes, as Jason Licht and his staff are building something special down here in Tampa. The team has good group of core players along with an excellent coaching staff and now just need those extra pieces to push them towards that next level. For Licht to say that players want to come here is a great sign as you probably couldn't say that 2 to 3 years ago. Now granted Jameis is a big reason for it as so many guys in the league already respect him and have nothing but great words to say about him.

Everyone can see that Jameis is a rising star in this league and players are intrigued by that and want to be a part of it. Desean Jackson wanted to play with a great Qb and he sees Jameis as one who can be that and above all calls Jameis a winner. That is high praise and this is great news for this team as players are starting to see this franchise as destination instead of a place for vacation. This team is on the rise and finally a winning culture is starting to take place. Finally this organization has a winning structure in place from the top to the bottom, 2017 could be the start of something special.

"I Have Never Had a Mike Evans Before"

This past Saturday the Bucs welcome their two big free agent signings in WR Desean Jackson, and DT Chris Baker to Tampa. Both were introduced to Tampa Bay and spoke with the local media on what they will bring to this team. Let's focus on Desean Jackson as he is the explosive playmaker this team desperately needed and is the perfect fit for this offense. For the Bucs to be able to get him in free agency is rare which is what  Bucs Gm Jason Licht said after signing Jackson per pewterreport.com.

“It is rare to find a player in free agency with the combination of speed and natural playmaking ability of a DeSean Jackson. DeSean is a smart, gifted athlete who has averaged more than 17 yards per reception throughout his nine-year career and brings the type of veteran experience and deep threat receiving ability that will have an immediate impact on our offense.”

Licht is right as it is very hard to find impact players like Desean Jackson hitting the open market but just like last year with Robert Ayers and Brent Grimes, the Bucs get a high level talent in Jackson this off-season. Now the Bucs have a legit threat next to the Bucs top receiver in Mike Evans who is only 23 and has put up three consecutive 1000 yard seasons. Now with an electric player like Desean next to him, the sky is the limit for this offense as it will put tons of stress on the opposing defense. Both will help each other as it could be a big year for both, possibly a career year for Desean as he really hasn't played with a player like Mike Evans before. Desean talked about this during his press conference on Saturday per Buccaneers.com.

    “As far as receivers I’ve played with in the past, I feel like I’ve played with some pretty good receivers. Jeremy Maclin for five, six years when I was in Philly, Pierre Garcon is definitely a physical, durable receiver. I give them guys credit, they’ve done some great things. Fast forward now, Mike Evans. I don’t think I’ve ever played with a Mike Evans. I’m just intrigued man, to go out on the field, to have a quarterback like Jameis (Winston) that wants to throw deep. To have another guy like Mike on the other side, he’s what, 6’5”? I’m 5’10”. You’ve got a big guy who’s kind of fast, you’ve got a smaller guy that’s very fast. This guy right here, (points to Koetter) I know he’s licking his chops to get it going. I am too, though.”

It's a power speed combo that the Bucs have now in Mike Evans and Desean Jackson. Evans can make plays anywhere on the field as can Desean so it is going to be very interesting to see how coach Koetter utilizes their abilities. Desean has been a number one WR for his whole career as he made Jeremy Maclin and Pierre Garcon into who they are which are very good number two's. Now the Bucs are paring Jackson with a elite number one WR in Mike Evans who hasn't even his is ceiling yet which is kinda scary. One thing is for sure, the Bucs offense is going to be fun to watch with the duo of Evans and Jackson working together.

The Bucs will be able to attack all three levels of the field and finally will have a diverse and versatile passing attack. The hot topic has been Desean is going to make Jameis better which he will, but the bigger topic is that Mike Evans is going to make Desean better which is great news for the Bucs offense. Evans will be able to draw defenders away from Jackson which will give Jackson more one on one matchups which is bad news for opposing defenses. More importantly, Jackson will have space to use his speed to create big plays down the field which will make the Bucs offense more effective in 2017. It is a great time to be a Bucs fan as we could see something very special this year on offense.

Bucs Improve Their Special Teams

The Bucs have definitely gotten better as a football team not only on offense and defense but on special teams as well. The Bucs added speed with the additions of Desean Jackson who can provide some return ability if needed. The Bucs also signed J.J Wilcox who can not only start at safety but has also made an impact on special teams during his time with the Cowboys. However, the biggest piece to the special teams was re-signed and that is Cb/S Josh Robinson who made big plays every week on special teams during the 2016 season.

Bucs make official the re-signing of defensive back Josh Robinson, who led team with 12 special-teams tackles last season ... two-year deal.

— Greg Auman (@gregauman) March 12, 2017

Robinson is a fan favorite and is just one heck of a player. He has 4.3 speed with plus size and has now learned how to play safety and he isn't afraid to hit opponents in the mouth. It will be intriguing to see if Robinson gets a chance to compete at safety as it would be cool to see what he can do with his speed as a center fielder. Again great job by Jason Licht who is making an emphasis on retaining his players as it is good to keep continuity,

Special teams made big strides last year and became one of the better units on this team. Bryon Anger was probably the best punter in the league last year who got a new 5 year extension right after the season ended. Now granted, the Bucs still need a consistent return man who can get past the 25 and make defenders miss, I think Mr.Licht has his eye out for one. Then there is Bucs fan favorite Roberto Aguyao who I thought did a decent job for a rookie and was getting better in the second half of the season. Expect Aguyao to take the next step this off-season or else he will be replaced. Still long way to go till the season begins, but right now the Bucs are building a team that can win in all three phases.

Bucs Add to The Safety Position With J.J Wilcox

It has been a busy off-season so far for the Bucs as they have added WR Desean Jackson, DT Chris Baker, and now today S J.J Wilcox. Wilcox, 26 is a former 3rd round pick by the Cowboys and will have a chance to compete for a starting role with the Bucs. Wilcox is a big hitter and loves to play physical, has good ball skills and can make plays in the passing game. However, he lacks instincts when it comes to playing the safety position and is still learning the position. Here is Bucs Gm Jason Licht on J.J Wilcox and what he can bring this season per pewterreport.com.

“Wilcox is going to compete for a starting role with Chris [Conte] and Keith [Tandy],” said Licht. “He’s a really hard-hitting physical player that’s really still got an upside. He played running back for most of his career in college – only played one year at safety. That’s a position that’s tough to get to know. He’s still coming into that position.”

Wilcox is a good athlete and at times shows the instincts and awareness allowing him to make plays on the ball. Then other times, he hesitates and is either late or misses on making the play on the ball. He does miss tackles as well due to poor angles or failing to wrap up so he needs to clean that up in his game. I will say Wilcox is always flying to the ball which is good to see and can play special teams as well. Wilcox playing in a more aggressive scheme will help him as he is usually at his best when he is able to play downhill and use his speed. With that being said I would still expect the Bucs to draft a safety in the upcoming draft as it is a very deep class. Here are some clips of Wilcox showing his strengths and weaknesses as a player.

Some Film on new #Buc JJ Wilcox good read on this play. pic.twitter.com/uGBWfx7qcl

— realbucstalk (@realbucstalk) March 12, 2017

Here is better look Wilcox travels about 20 yards in 3 seconds. pic.twitter.com/lDM3m4ZQ5B

— realbucstalk (@realbucstalk) March 12, 2017

Wilcox flies in missed the ball though. pic.twitter.com/6OWau71pK0

— realbucstalk (@realbucstalk) March 12, 2017

Wilcox can't let this happen...still needs work. Inconsistent pic.twitter.com/UQd8HoLrfH

— realbucstalk (@realbucstalk) March 12, 2017

Bucs Get Their Guy in Desean Jackson

Update: Here is the official deal for Desean Jackson per Adam Schefter.

Buccaneers reached agreement with DeSean Jackson on a three-year, $35-million contract that includes $20 million guaranteed, per sources.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2017

The Bucs knew once the off-season started they needed to add speed to the offense as there was not enough explosive plays last season. Both HC Dirk Koetter and GM Jason Licht said they wanted to add more playmakers and it looks like they have done that today. Bucs are expected to sign WR Desean Jackson who was their top free agent target per NFL Network's Ian Rapport.

The #Bucs are expected to sign #Redskins WR DeSean Jackson, source said. A deal they’ve expected, but a big one.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2017

Expect this deal to become official right at 4pm once free agency begins which is great news for the Bucs offense and Jameis Winston. The Bucs needed another receiver to pair up with Mike Evans, but most importantly someone who is dynamic and can make big plays. Well the Bucs are getting just that in Desean Jackson who still has plenty of speed and led the NFL in yards per catch at 18. Jackson, 30 is a big time playmaker as he had 4 catches of 50 yards or more last season while the Bucs as a team had none in 2016. With Jackson now, the Bucs have the capability to produce more explosive plays down the field which creates quick strike ability for the Bucs offense. More details expected later today stay tuned. Right now it's a great day in Tampa Bay!

Here it is...Touchdown to Jackson. Two plays! And Redskins have 7. #explosive. #Bucs pic.twitter.com/yz1XWzJhdA

— realbucstalk (@realbucstalk) March 5, 2017

Real Bucs Talk Mailbag: Combine, Combine, Combine...

by Douglas O'Connor
follow me on Twitter HERE 

     Here at Real Bucs Talk we pride ourselves on communication with Buccaneer fans. You can mostly find us on Twitter but sometimes 140 characters isn't enough, so we started a Mailbag. This gives us ample space to answer your questions. Look for the Mailbag every Sunday during the off season and maybe see your questioned answered.

     We are smack dab in the middle of the NFL Combine so it wasn't a surprise that all this weeks Mailbag questions are combine related. Real Bucs Talk have been following the combine closely and are ready to answer want you want to know.

Does John Ross 4.22 40 Make Him A Must Draft If He Is There At 19?

     It's no secret that head coach Dirk Koetter is looking for speed on the offensive side of the ball. What better way to fill that need than draft the player that has the fastest 40 combine time ever. However, I do have some concerns.

     Ross has already had two knee surgeries and is scheduled to go under the knife again to repair his soldier. So labeling him as injury prone is more than fair. Because of his knee injuries Ross only has one year of production and when the light were brightest, a game against Alabama he didn't show up.

     This isn't to say that I don't like Ross, I do, but this draft is so deep at wide receiver Jason Licht might feel a 1st round pick is to risky. I also think that because of his size Ross might be better suited as a slot receiver. Since the Bucs like Adam Humphries maybe Ross isn't in the Bucs plans.

     If the Bucs do select Ross at 19 I will be more than okay with the pick. Even though I have my reservations about he medicals I have all the confidence in Jason Licht and his vetting process. After winning the lottery with Jameis Winston, Jason hit a home run the next year with Noah Spence. Both players had major red flags coming out of college. #InLichtITrust.

Who Was Your Biggest Combine Surprise?

     The combine isn't over with yet as of time of post, so safeties and corner backs are going to be excluded but that's okay because a player really caught my eye during the tight end drills.

     If you follow Real Bucs Talk them you know that we have taken a long look at free agent tight end Jack Doyle. He spent his first three years in the NFL as the Colts blocking tight end, think Luke Stocker. Then when Coby Fleener moved on to the Saints he got his shot to catch some passes and he responded, think Cameron Brate.

     When I first started writing about Doyle it seemed like no one was talking about him. Now I hear his name more and more, so he may not end up being the bargain I hoped he would be.

     Enter George Kittle.

     Kittle played his college ball at the University of Iowa, so you know he block, but when he ran a 4.52 40 I started to take notice. Not only did Kittle place 3rd overall in the fastest tight end class of all time, but he placed 3rd in the broad jump and 6th in the vert.

     Huh... let's go find some tape.

     There isn't much tape of Kittle catching passes. If you want to see some superb blocking no problem but receptions are rare. So I checked with some draft evaluators that I trust and pick their brains. Both draft guys weren't surprised by Kittle's combine performance. Although his 40 time wasn't expected they felt that Kittle is undervalued. A guy that can get to all three levels and has more make you miss than you'd think and of course block. Just what Jason Licht is looking for.

     This tight end draft class was billed as the deepest ever and they came out during the combine and proved it. As a Bucs fan I'm hoping Kittle is around in the 4th or 5th round and Licht gets his tight end for a bargain.

Who Were You High On That Didn't Have A Good Combine?

     To be honest no one. Sure some guys under preformed in some drills, but I don't think anyone had a combine that killed their draft chances. I will list one player from each position that had a bad drill or two and might need a closer look to cement their draft grade.

RB Wayne Gallman, Clemson: Some experts have Gallman as a top 5 back. He was middle of the road all day. Need to see more.

OL Zach Banner, USC: He has been struggling with his weight and it's a work in progress, needs a better pro day.

QB Seth Russell, Baylor: Injuries derailed his college career. Needed a huge combine to create some buzz. Didn't happen.

TE Jeremy Sprinkle, Arkansas: This guy just got lost in the historically deep tight end draft. Personally I don't think he loves the game. 

LB Reuben Foster, Alabama: Sent home for getting into a shouting match with a hospital worker during the medicals at the combine. If it hurts his draft stock at all it will only be a position or two but that's a lot of money. If you can't keep your cool at the combine when are you going to, Red Flag!

DL Tim Williams, Alabama: His expected explosiveness wasn't anywhere to be seen. I mean nowhere. Every team will be going back over tape on this guy. Could be nothing could be everything.

you can also follow Real Bucs Talk on Twitter HERE  

Thanks for reading and as always GO BUCS! 

Players To Watch: Combine Edition.

by Douglas O'Connor
follow me on Twitter HERE 

     It's that time of year Buc fans. Combine week!

     Excluding those of us who scour YouTube watching highlight videos of their favorite prospects. This will be the first time to get an up close look at players that will be drafted by your Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

     Below I'm going to write about some players that I like for the Bucs. Focusing on the positions that I think are needs for the team. Wide receiver, running back, safety, tight end and edge.

     I'm will be leaving out some top tier players. Prospects that I feel won't be there at 19 for the Bucs or are have received a ton of coverage already.

     All height and weights are nonofficial precombine numbers.

     Wide Receivers 

Omissions: Corey Davis, Mike Williams & John Ross

KD Cannon, Baylor: 5'11" 180lbs. If the Bucs want speed on the outside, this is a guy to watch. Eats up corner back cushions quickly and is a home run threat. Catches the ball against his body to much for my liking. Watch him in the Gauntlet drill to see if he is working on that part of his game. Late round developmental player. Rounds 5-7.

Amara Darboh, Michigan: 6'2" 215lbs. This guy is built to be a WR2. If he runs a sub 4.5 40, that could push him as high as the 2nd round. If he is around in the 4th take him and pat yourself on the back.

Isaiah Ford, Virginia Tech: 6'1" 195lbs. Quick, tall and thin. I think he could cause massive match up in the slot. Might have trouble when DB's get physical with him. Rounds 3-5.

Kenny Golladay, Northern Illinois: 6'4" 194lbs. This player just hit my radar. I'll be watching him closely and I think you should too. Jury is still out.

Carlos Henderson, LA Tech: 5'11" 191lbs. Another speed receiver. Henderson is moving up draft boards and also is an excellent returner. Huge one year of production. Round 2-3.

Zay Jones, ECU: 6'2" 202lbs. Another big board climber. Jones had an outstanding Senior Bowl week. If he duplicates that at the combine he will secure himself as a top 5 WR. Rounds 2-3.

Josh Reynolds, Texas A&M: 6'3" 187lbs. I like this guy for the Buccaneers. Good deep speed and high point receiver. Played for same college team as Mike Evans, so you know he will immediately take Josh under his wing. If drafted by the Bucs he will lineup at WR2 week 1. Rounds 2-3.

Draft Crush

ArDarius Stewart, Alabama: 5' 11" 204lbs. A lot like O.J. Howard, Stewart's potential was stunted by the run heavy Alabama offense. A superb athlete that you find ways to get the ball. I think Stewart has the opportunity to improve his draft grade more than any other WR at the combine. Lack of tape might scare some teams off early in the draft. Round 2-5.

Running Back

Omissions: Dalvin Cook, Leonard Fournette & Christian McCaffery

Tarik Cohen, NC A&T: 5'6" 179lbs. Nicknamed "The Human Joystick". Tarik believes that if you can't touch him you sure as hell can't tackle him. I don't think the Bucs have much interest in Cohen but he will be a fun watch during the combine. Round ???.

D'Onta Foreman, Texas: 6'0" 233lbs. Big and powerful with good feet and wiggle for a player his size. Some report a sub 4.5 40 coming in the combine. That will help. Poor blocking and average vision will hurt. Rounds 3-4

Wayne Gallman, Clemson: 6'0" 215lbs. One cut and go. Gallman might start his NFL career as a short yardage specialist. Needs to improve in pass protection to see the field consistently. Round 3-5.

Kareem Hunt, Toledo: 5' 10" 216lbs. Doesn't do anything outstanding but stay on his feet. His balance is outstanding. I also like his vision, just finds creases. Rounds 2-4

Marlon Mack, USF: 5'11" 213lbs. Local kid with break away speed. Great hips and big play ability. Fumbles way too much for a pro caliber RB. Rounds 3-4.

Freddie Stevenson, FSU: 6'0" 234lbs. One of only two fullbacks invited to the combine. Jason Licht has gone after a FB in each of the past two drafts. Stevenson is a devastating blocker that is athletic enough to be a weapon in the passing game. Rounds 6-7.

Draft Crush

Brian Hill, Wyoming: 6'1" 219lbs. If you like Doug Martin you will like Hill. Tough inside runner with good size and speed. I don't know what it is about this kid, I just like him. I'll be watching closely. Rounds 4-6.

Safety

Omissions: Jamal Adams & Malik Hooker

Budda Baker, Washington: 5'10" 180lbs. When a guy can just ball you quit caring about his measurables. His football instincts are off the charts and is damn near unblockable. If you are in need of a safety and you pick in the second half of the 1st round. Just take him and move on. Pro Bowl talent.

Eddie Jackson, Alabama: 6'0" 194lbs. Jackson broke his leg during the 2016 and has a lot to prove during the combine. Some critics think Jackson success was because of Alabama's front 7  more than his covering ability. Rounds, need to see his combine.

Draft Crush

Obi Melifonwu, UConn: 6'4" 219lbs. That's right 6'4" 219lbs. Obi was seen as just a box safety until Senior Bowl practices. WR after WR took their shot against Obi and couldn't shake him. He is going to test very well at the combine and could sneak into the 1st round. Rounds 1-3. 

Tight End

Omissions: O.J. Howard & David Njoku

Evan Engram, Ole Miss: Engram isn't getting much pub from Buc writers but to me he is the 2nd best tight end in this draft. He can play every receiver spot on the field. If he was a better blocker he'd be a sure fire round one pick. Rounds 1-2.

Michael Roberts, Toledo: 6'4" 270lbs. All he does is catch 1st downs and TD's. Raw route runner and blocker that ceiling is as high as anybodies at his position. Watching him move in the more precise drills will be telling. Rounds 3-6. 

Adam Shaheen, Ashland: 6'6" 278lbs. He can catch and he can move but he can't block. Shaheen has the frame and ability but hasn't had the coaching. A late round flyer that could pay big dividends. Rounds 5-7.

Draft Crush

Gerald Everett, South Alabama: 6'3" 239lbs. Blocks like you stole something from him and has good hands to boot. Fast for a player his size and has big YAC potential. Jason Licht is looking for a tight end that can run, catch and block on the pro level. This is my pick to fill that bill.

Edge

     To be honest I don't like the combine for evaluating edge rushers. The only opposition they face is a tackling dummy and tackling dummies don't have the best footwork. A few edge prospects have been linked to the Bucs so I'll give you a list of guys but game tape is the only way to find a guy you like.

The Big Names

Jonathan Allen Alabama, Derek Barnett Tennessee, Taco Charlton Michigan, Myles Garrett Texas A&M, Charles Harris Missouri & Solomon Thomas Stanford 

Tier Two

Carl Lawson Auburn, Haason Reddick Temple, Demarcus Walker FSU, Tim Williams Alabama & Chris Wormley Michigan.

Best Of The Rest

Bryan Cox Jr. Florida, Trey Hendrickson FAU, Tanoh Kpassagnon Villanova, Avery Moss YSU & Jordan Willis KSU

     Well there you have it. My list of players to watch for the next 4 days. Hopefully these names will enrich your NFL Combine experience. 

     If you can't watch this years combine I will be Live Tweeting the action all 4 days, so give me a follow.

you can also follow Real Bucs Talk on Twitter HERE  

thanks for reading and as always GO BUCS!

Bucs Believe in Their O-Line

Well I think it is pretty safe to say that the Bucs won't be making many changes if at all to the offensive line this off-season. Both Gm Jason Licht and HC Dirk Koetter echoed that today as both said they like their current group and feel they have a good nucleus to work with. Now that doesn't mean they don't need to improve as coach Koetter said they need to get better as a group per Rick Stroud.

Koetter said they're happy with their personnel on the offensive line. But they have to get better.

— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) March 1, 2017

 This makes sense as the Bucs have invested heavily into the O-line the past few years by adding key draft pieces in Donovan Smith, Ali Marpet, Kevin Pamphile, and Caleb Benenoch. Plus the team will get back J.R Sweezy who was signed last off-season and is expected to make an impact this season. The team also has key veterans in Evan Smith and Demar Dotson coming back who both provide depth and starting ability. I think the Bucs will try to bring back C Joe Hawley for the right price as they will try to keep last year's unit intact.

Now let me be clear I do not agree with the Bucs opinion of their O-line as I think we need to upgrade the C and RT positions. I would like the team to bring in players at those positions via free agency or the draft. On the other hand, the Bucs might have the answers already on the roster to upgrade these positions. Donovan Smith, Ali Marpet, and Kevin Pamphile should continue to get better as they gain more experience and all three want to be great.

So right there I say you have 3 out of your 5 starters and are looking for two more to step up to the plate. Now some internal options include JR Sweezy, Caleb Benenoch, Ben Gottschalk, Leonard Wester, and newly acquired James Stone. The Bucs are very high on all five and I think Gottschalk and Stone have a chance to be the upgrade at center if the Bucs choose not to resign Joe Hawley. Again the Bucs feel they have a good group and I think the ideal scenario is they can move either Pamphile or Marpet to C and have Sweezy play G, giving you a strong line of Smith, Pamphile, Marpet, Sweezy, and Dotson. It's going to be an interesting off-season for this unit as they are coming off a down season and must improve overall as an unit.

Bucs Will Look to Add Playmakers

The hot topic this off-season for the Bucs has been about adding more weapons for Jameis and the offense. Well today Bucs Gm Jason Licht spoke in front of the media at the NFL Scouting Combine and started it off by saying this per Gregg Rosenthal.

Bucs GM Licht: we want to add playmakers. (I expect them to be very active in FA)

— Gregg Rosenthal (@greggrosenthal) March 1, 2017

It sure seems like Licht agrees with the fans in that this team needs more weapons around Winston and the offense. I believe the Bucs will be aggressive in free agency and the draft but will be smart and focus on value as well. The team needs to add players with more speed, someone who can be a game changer, especially at the RB or WR position. The Bucs have Mike Evans and Cam Brate but need more around them to become a more complete offense. The NFL is about big plays and last year the Bucs offense didn't have enough, so look for the team to look for players that can make defenders miss and create big plays. This is why I believe the Bucs will target FA WR Desean Jackson once free agency begins as he brings speed and big play ability plus being a great number 2 next to Mike Evans. Others that I think the Bucs look at include S Tony Jefferson, DE/DT Calais Campbell, WR Cordarrelle Patterson, TE Jack Doyle and S Duron Harmon. These are players I can see the Bucs targeting to help fill needs and add depth.

Again not expecting the Bucs to sign every free agent, but similar to last year in which they will add four to five which will include some high level starters. This team is very close and I think Jason Licht understands that and will be aggressive in his efforts to improve the personnel. In addition, this year's draft has good depth at positions that the Bucs need to add to which should help this team take that next step if the proper moves are made. I will say this if the Bucs can add a Desean Jackson, then in the draft pick up a combo of TE D.Njoku, WR C.Henderson, and RB K.Hunt, the Bucs would become instant playoff contenders. Only eight days away till free agency begins, lets hope Licht and his staff come out throwing the heat.

1st Edition: Real Bucs Talk Mailbag

by Douglas O'Connor
follow me on Twitter @Ren_Daxt by clicking HERE 

      Here at RBT we spend a great deal of time on Twitter answering questions and talking Bucs football. Sometimes we feel that 140 characters isn't enough to let you know exactly what we are thinking and/or saying. So we created The Mailbag. Tweet out your Buccaneers questions with the #RBTMB and get your inquires answered with the thoroughness it deserves.

     What's the best way to handle the Mike Evans contract? Renegotiate now or wait one or possibly two more years and try to resign him then?

     Good question. I guess it comes down to what's best for the team, long term salary wise, and what's best for Mike. On one hand the Buccaneers would save a ton of money over the next two years if they decided to let Evans contract play out. On the other hand there is no question that Mike has out played his rookie deal and deserves a big pay raise. Plus, in the long run the sooner the Bucs sign Evans to a long term deal the cheaper he is going to be. My guess is that Evans gets his big contract this off season and here's why.

     Mike Greenberg, Directer of Football Administration, which is a fancy word for capologist, which in turn is another fancy word for accountant, has overseen, with GM Jason Licht four long term deals. Gerald McCoy, Lavonte Davis, Doug Martin and J.R. Sweezy. With all these contracts Greenberg has front loaded the deals with all the guaranteed money so if something goes awry after two years or so i.e. serious injury, dramatic drop of in play, PED suspension, the Bucs can cut bait and have zero dead money against the cap. After the 2017 season, out of these four players only Gerald McCoy will have any guaranteed money against the cap and that amount is only $500k.

     The Bucs have the cap space this year to front load a 5 year deal for Mike. A 2017 & 2018 guaranteed contract will come of the books just in time for Licht and Greenberg to front load offers to Kwon Alexander, Donovan Smith and Ali Marpet. Now is the perfect window Evans to cash in and it makes the most sense for both parties involved. Mike gets his millions two years early and the Buccaneers get his guaranteed money off the book in time for the next wave a long term deals.

     Do you think Keith Tandy's last five games are what we can expect next season or do you see him more as a flash in the pan?

     Hmmmmm... I had to think about this one for a bit. Finally after switching off from searching the web and staring blankly at my screen I think I came up with a pretty good answer. It might not be the right one but here is what I came up with.

     Tandy has been nothing more than a special teamer and fill in safety since he was drafted by the Bucs in 2012. The next year, 2013, he put up really solid numbers. Especially from a player with only 5 starts. 40 TOT, 3 PDEF, 3 Int, 1 FR and 1 FF. The next two seasons he was banished to the bench under Lovie Smith. But it's hard to put much stock in Lovie's defensive back evaluation skills, with the way his defenses were torched in the passing game. Fast forward to 2016, now under new DC Mike Smith, once Tandy hit the field his numbers only improved from 2013. 5 starts, 57 TOT, 9 PDEF, 4 INT, and 1 FR.

     It would appear that Kieth only needs a chance to prove himself and he does. I also think that it just takes longer for some players to get "it". Finally something just clicks and the game just starts to come easier for them. Whether it was about never getting a fair shake at a starting job or he finally is playing without hesitation I can't say for sure. I will say the he has earned the right to line up with the first defense on day one of training camp.

     Pierre Garcon or DeSean Jackson, which one would you rather the Bucs sign?

     The quick answer, neither!

     But in the spirit of the question and my promise to you as the RBT Mailbag guardian of opinions, here goes.

     I like to play a little game when I come up against a decision I'm struggling with. I pretend that my life is depending on it. The only rule is that I have to be honest with myself. The almighty power that is dangling over the bottomless abyss can see into my soul and will know if I'm lying. That way when I think about one answer and I feel safe, then that's the right choice. If I felt the slightest bit scared or threatened, then I know I'm lying to myself and the other answer is correct.

     It's the same thing as assigning each choice to a side of a coin and then flipping. If you are happy with the outcome then that the right choice for you. If you are disappointed then the other choice is what you should do. Get it? I hope so 'cause that the best way I can explain it.

     Now after all that it really an easy choice for me. I don't even have to flip the coin. I like Garcon and there isn't much to say about why. In my opinion Jackson is a one trick pony. If he didn't have his speed he'd be a WR4 on some NFL team. Now he's 30 and eventually his speed will disappear. It might be tomorrow, it might be in 5 years, who knows. I just don't feel comfortable with Jackson at the WR2 for the Bucs going into the season. It's just that simple.

     WINNER Pierre Garcon, by Default.

     Well that's it Buc fans, our 1st Mailbag post. Hey that was fun let's do it again, saaaay next Sunday? OK cool it's a date!

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Thanks for Reading and as Always GO BUCS!

Is it Time to go All in?

With the off-season about to get into full swing in a few weeks, many Bucs fans are talking about what direction this team should take. Personally Im excited to see what route Bucs Gm Jason Licht decides to take as the last two off-seasons he has built the foundation through the draft while adding key depth and role players through free agency. The question I ask now, "is it time to go all in"? I say yes and no as I believe it is time to be more aggressive in free agency and the draft as long as it is what is best for the team. With expectations growing, along with the core players having more experience and are now ready to take that next step, it might be time to speed up the process and go for it all.

I expect Licht to follow what he did last off-season in terms of re-signing his own, adding good starters/role players via free agency and then finding core players through the draft. The big topic has been about adding more weapons on offense in which the unit had some setbacks and could be much better with a few more pieces to work with. With that being said, I would like to see the Bucs go after these positions via free agency: WR, DL, DB and perhaps OL. Then go after those positions in the draft as well including the RB and TE position which are probably the two deepest positions in this years draft.

The Bucs did this last year by adding CB Brent Grimes and DE Robert Ayers via free agency and then went on to draft CB Vernon Hargreaves and DE Noah Spence. This allowed Hargreaves and Spence to grow into their roles and eventually became big pieces of the defense in their rookie years. At the same time, the defense got instant impact from Grimes and Ayers whom both helped this defense become one of the better units in the league down the stretch of the 2016 season. Now the Bucs can do the same on offense this year by adding some impact players via free agency.

Some names I like for WR are Desean Jackson, Kenny Stills, and Pierre Garcon. Any of those 3 would be a big help then in addition add a guy like Cordarrelle Patterson to help with special teams and the team instantly becomes more dynamic. Then add some pieces to the defense by going after a Dontari Poe or even Calais Campbell to help the front four, and then go after a playmaking safety in either Eric Berry or Tony Jefferson to help solidify the secondary. If the Bucs could pull off some of these moves and then go into the draft and double down on a few of these positions there depth would be tremendously improved. So will the Bucs go all in? Is it time Bucs fans to go for more than just making the playoffs?

Bucs Will Have Options in The Draft

Plenty of options is what I see in this upcoming draft as there is tons of talent on both sides of the ball. While most fans agree that the Bucs need to go offense in the early rounds, it doesn't mean they can't go defense again in round 1 as there is great talent on that side of the ball this year. I believe in getting the best player available but at the same time that player filling a team need. Bucs Gm Jason Licht has done this in his three drafts so far as he usually attacks the teams biggest need in the early rounds along with going for the safe pick.

Heading into this draft, I would identify RB, WR, TE, C, DL, S as team needs going into the off-season. The Bucs could address any of these areas in round 1 as there will be plenty of prospects that will be worthy which allows the Bucs to be selective in free agency as well as in the draft. It is going to depend on what happens in front of the Bucs selection but they should have a good group to choose from. The best news for the Bucs is that this draft is very deep at positions of need according to draft expert Daniel Jeremiah.

This draft has the deepest/most talented group of CBs I've seen in several years. Also, loaded with edge rushers, safeties, RBs and TEs.

— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) January 11, 2017

With that being said, The Bucs could have their choice of guys like Corey Davis, John Ross, OJ Howard, Derek Barnett, and Charles Harris. I see teams reaching for Qbs and O-line along with corners and safeties going top 15 which should push elite talent down the board. Perhaps there is a Caleb Brantley or Solomon Thomas to upgrade the interior defensive line or even better one of the top RBs in Fournette or Cook are there, either way the Bucs are in a good position. So Bucs fans don't get locked into one position because if Gm Jason Licht does that then a reach will occur and that will be a bad choice. Instead it's about adding the best player possible that makes sense for the team and right now this team could use more talent in most areas.

O-Line Gains More Depth

Some Bucs fans believe that Jason Licht and company need to upgrade the offensive line which they might do but don't expect a big overhaul. The Bucs offensive line had their fair share of up and downs as they were a big reason for the 5 game winning streak, but also had a big part in the Bucs last two losses vs the Cowboys and Saints. The unit has a good young nucleus with Ali Marpet, Donovan Smith, Kevin Pamphile, Caleb Benenoch and the return of JR Sweezy.

With Sweezy being cleared to resume football activities that gives the Bucs O-line more depth and versatility. Bucs Gm Jason Licht likes drafting O-lineman that are versatile and have potential to be great which he has done the last three years by drafting Pamphile, Smith, Marpet, and Benenoch. The team has a good coach in George Warhop who does an excellent job of developing the players technique but also to have them cross-trained at multiple positions.

What Jason Licht has done is build quality depth across the unit and it should only get better as the young core gains experience. Plus Licht has already added young talent in center James Stone from the Falcons, and guard Jarvis Harrison who was a former draft pick of the Jets. Add in Leonard Wester who the Bucs are very high on that gives the Bucs depth for the foreseeable future. Hopefully Sweezy can bring the kind of impact that he was signed on for and add more physicality to the unit.

The Bucs have options now to truly play the best five lineman with Sweezy on board along with other pieces that are entering their 2nd and 3rd years. Look for Licht to keep a similar approach when comes to adding lineman through free agency and the draft. I think their main weakness is at center (click on center) which is where Licht could put his focus at if he is going to add a lineman this off-season. Overall, I think the Bucs are going to stay put at O-line as they will try to re-sign Joe Hawley and perhaps use a draft pick on a right tackle or a center prospect. Then they will let the best five rise to the top and roll with it. Again this off-season is all about adding weapons for Winston, so expect the Bucs to do that while to hope that the O-line lives up to their potential. However, if they don't I fully expect the Bucs to address the unit in the 2018 off-season.

Upgrade Needed At The Tight End Position

by Douglas O'Connor
follow me on Twitter @Ren_Daxt 

     The beginning of the 2016 season was filled with question marks. Will Jameis Winston progress as an NFL quarterback? Can new coordinator Mike Smith make an impact on the defense? How big of role a will the draft picks play? Will the Bucs make the playoffs? I could go on, and on, and on. One question no one had was, what are the Buccaneers going to do at tight end? 

     The Bucs had youth, Cameron Brate, talent, Austin Seferian-Jenkins, experience, Brandon Myers, and leadership, Luke Stocker. If everything had gone as planned the Buccaneers would of been set at tight end for years to come.

     Fast forward to the present and tight end has gone from a position of strength to a position of need. Brate was a welcomed surprise. Racking up 57 catches for 660 yards and 8 touchdowns, but ASJ was just as big of a disappointment. Getting arrested for DUI two weeks into the season was the last straw for the Buccaneer front office and cut the troubled tight end before the home opener. Myers is now a free agent and I don't expect the Bucs to attempt to bring him back, and Stocker, primarily used as a blocker, is the only other of the four under contract.

     The Bucs run a ton of two tight end sets and adding a player(s) that can get open and block on the NFL level will be the off season goal for GM Jason Licht and his staff. The question is who, and where will they look for them?

What The Bucs Have: As of time of posting the Buccaneers have five tight ends on the roster. Three on the 53 man and two future contract players.

    Cameron Brate we all know about. Ivy league UDFA that made the team during the 2014 training camp and quickly built a chemistry with quarterback Jameis Winston while filling in for oft injured ASJ. The early season decision to cut bait with ASJ in 2016 landed Brate squarely in the starting role and he responded with a Pro Bowl type season. Cameron is part of the solution and I don't see any free agency targets that make sense that will oust him from his starting role. However there are two players in the draft, if the Bucs go tight end early, that could challenge Brate during training camp. 

     Luke Stocker is an excellent blocker and is used more as a fullback than a traditional tight end. Stocker contributes next to nothing in the passing game logging only 47 catches during his six years with the Bucs and struggles to get any separation in his routes. Licht has tried to replace Luke by drafting a true fullback, Joey Iosefa, in 2015 and a hybrid TE/FB, Danny Vitale in 2016. Neither one panned out and Luke has been able to keep his job. I expect Stocker to make the 53 man roster next year but to lose his starting job. The Buccaneers have already signed Quayvon Hicks, a fullback from Georgia, that blocked for Todd Gurley and Nick Chubb in college and their is a free agent that I like that would make Luke Stocker obsolete. 

    
     Alan Cross proved to be a better blocker than 6th round draft pick Danny Vitale so he made the team. A UDFA out of Memphis was serviceable when he was in the game for the Bucs but isn't going to be drafted on anyone's fantasy team anytime soon. Cross should make the team in 2017 mostly because of low price tag.

     Future contract players Tevin Westbrook and Kivon Cartwright are both big, athletic, and raw. The Buccaneers like Westbrook whom they have kept on the practice squad for two years now. I think this is a make or break year for Tevin if he doesn't make the 53 man roster this year his days at One Buc maybe over. Cartwright a former Colorado State Ram will be hard pressed to stay with the organization. Westbrook already has two years in Koetter's offense and the 2017 draft is the deepest for tight ends anyone can remember. The deck is stacked against Kivon but Jason Licht did sign him for a reason.

Free Agents: Martellus Bennett is the clear number one tight end in free agency this off season but his age and price tag will probably be to high for the Buccaneers. I like a four year veteran whose path has mirrored the Bucs own Cameron Brate.

     Jack Doyle was UDFA out of the University of Western Kentucky that was picked up by the Indianapolis Colts after he was let go by the Titans. Playing mostly as a blocking tight end for his first three years. Doyle finally got his shot with the departure of Coby Fleener in 2016 and he responded with 59 catches for 584 yards and 5 touchdowns. Playing the run blocking tight end is key in Doyle's evaluation. Look at it this way. Jack Doyle played three years as Luke Stocker, then when given the chance he put up numbers comparable to Cameron Brate. He actually had more receptions and yards than the Colts number one tight end Dwayne Allen with just one less touchdown. Picking up a veteran run blocker that has shown the ability to get open in the red zone and is only 26. That's the type of player I would like to see the Buccaneers make a play for.

The 2017 NFL Draft: This years tight end pool might be the deepest ever. I've seen as many as twenty prospects receiving draftable grades, with three coming from the University of Oregon. I'm only going to write about a few here, the clear number one guy, a small school draft board riser and a late round project.

     O.J. Howard, University of Alabama: Solid, solid run blocker and most think underutilized as a pass catcher in the Crimson Tide's offense. Recently won the best player award at the Senior Bowl and will be the first tight end taken off the board. Projected to be drafted around where the Bucs pick at 19. With the draft being deep at other need positions for the Buccaneers will the lure of the best player on the board be to much for Jason Licht to pass up at 19?

     Gerald Everett, South Alabama: Starting his college career at UAB, then transferring to the Jaguars after Birmingham killed their football program. Everett is gaining buzz and climbing up big boards. Scouts believe that he can be a serious receiving threat in the NFL. I've even read that Everett won't last past the second round.

     Jeremy Sprinkle, Arkansas: Lost behind Hunter Henry last season, Sprinkle put up solid numbers in 2016 and is a an above average receiver and blocker. He could be around in the 6th or 7th round making him a value pick for Jason Licht.

What I Think Will Happen: Without Cameron Brate the Bucs tight end situation might be the worst in the league. Especially with players that can get down the seam for an explosive plays. Jason Licht will address it in free agency and the draft. Don't expect a top tier free agent because the Bucs already have a Pro Bowl caliber starter. The draft could go a number of ways. I wouldn't be surprised if Licht took Howard at 19 but what if WR Corey Davis is still available? Best guess, the Buccaneers will take a tight end by their third pick in this years draft.  

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Jason Licht Most Important Position Decision This Off Season

by Douglas O'Connor
follow me on Twitter @Ren_Daxt

     The Tampa Bay Buccaneers General Manager Jason Licht has a lot of decisions to make this off season in the personnel department. The Bucs are looking for speed and weapons to aid in the development of now 3rd year quarterback Jameis Winston. Upgrades for safety, wide receiver, and running back positions are also in the mix. Not to mention overall depth at tight end, defensive line, and corner back need to be addressed as well. All in all a full plate for Licht and his staff. However, no starting position has more question marks surrounding it as does the Bucs situation at center.

     I'm going to cover what the Buccaneers could do with the players they have on their roster now, possible solutions in free agency and finally options in the 2017 NFL draft. First up, prospective scenario's if Jason Licht decides to stand pat with the players the Bucs have under contract.

What The Bucs Have
     If the Buccaneers ultimately decide to not to bring in a free agent center or pick one up in the draft, they still have plenty of options. Evan Smith, the 2015 opening day starter, Ben Gottschalk, a UDFA that made the team during training camp and saw some playing time at center this season because of injuries and Josh Allen another UDFA that spent most of last year on the Buccaneers practice squad.

     Smith has seven years in the league and can also play guard which makes him a valuable player to have but he's not an NFL caliber starting center. When Smith went down with injury in 2015 the Bucs went and found Joe Hawley who took over and never relinquished the starting job. If all else fails is the only way I think Buc fans see number 62 snapping the ball to Jameis in week one. 

     Gottschalk and Allen stories are almost the same. The Bucs like their upside and are willing to put in the time to develop their particular skill sets but unless they have the training camps of their lives, they are both looking over Smiths shoulder as the Buccaneers starter in 2017. 

     However there is one narrative that is gaining steam in which the Bucs put their best three interior lineman on the field. Only problem is that they are all guards.

     Since the Buccaneers moved back up into the second round in the 2015 draft and selected division three guard Ali Marpet, Buc fans have been speculating that Ali was taken to be the center of the future. Marpet has been seen delivering snaps to various quarterbacks at One Buc since his first OTA's. With the possible return of 2016 free agent signing, guard JR Sweezy and guard Kevin Pamphile playing himself into a starting job, now is the time for the Marpet move. This scenario greatly depends on the return of Sweezy. A back injury kept him out all of last year and has never even played a snap in a Buccaneers practice. If Sweezy can't make it back, it almost forces the Bucs to look at free agency or the draft for their center need.

The Free Agents
     Since Jason Licht fully took over the free agency process players over thirty are no longer off the table. CB Brent Grimes, DL Roberts Ayers, and LB Daryl Smith are all into the second half of their careers and played important roles this year for the Buccaneers. Licht has gone on record as calling these "bridge" players. Veterans that though productive aren't the long term solution. If the Bucs feel that Gottschalk or Allen is the future there are a couple of older free agent centers that can come in as a "bridge" to either one. 

     Joe Hawley:  It became apparent during the second half of the season that the Bucs need an upgrade at center. Hawley was constantly losing his 1 on 1 battles and was tossed around most of the season. Love the beard, not the player. Having said that, Licht is familiar with Hawley and he knows the system. I'd be surprised to see Joe back in pewter but not shocked.

     A.Q. Shipley:  A five year veteran that is possibly looking for his fourth team. Spending his last two seasons in Arizona, Shipley started all sixteen games for the Cards in 2016. With the recent super stardom of RB David Johnson teams are going to take a look at the players who helped him get there. Add the fact that Arizona runs a deep route passing game similar to the Buccaneers, Shipley could be good fit.

     There is one young center that could start in the middle of the Bucs line for years to come, if Licht decides to go with youth in free agency.

     J.C. Tretter:  Spending all four years of his career in Green Bay, Tretter slowly moved up the depth chart until he won the starting job in 2016. Seven games in he suffered a scary knee injury against Atlanta. December 9th the Packers announced that Tretter had returned to practice in a limited role. Now it has been released that J.C. underwent knee surgery January 17th. If Tretter can prove to Licht and his staff that he is healthy and the Bucs are looking for a long term answer J.C. Tretter could be their guy.

The Draft
     The 2017 NFL draft is a terrible draft if your team needs starting offensive linemen. The player that has the best chance to be a week one starter at the center position is Ethan Pocic, LSU. Pocic is a good run and pass blocker but isn't excellent at either. Projected by most mock drafts to go in between round one to round three. If Pocic is available to the Buccaneers near the bottom of the third round, the temptation to possibly shore up the center position for the next four years might be to great for Jason Licht to pass up. 

What I Think Will Happen*

     It all depends on J.R. Sweezy. If Sweezy can return to his 2015 playing ability I think the Bucs keep Sweezy at right guard, where he played in Seattle, move Ali Marpet to center and keep Kevin Pamphile in the left guard spot. I also think this new interior trio will be given every chance to succeed. 

     If Sweezy's back isn't healthy enough at the beginning of training camp, look for Licht to bring in a "bridge" center and the Pamphile, Marpet and Sweezy interior will have to wait. Maybe as long as 2018.

     *Right before posting the Buccaneers announced another center signing, James Stone. Further proof that it is a position weighing on Jason Licht mind. That makes four centers on the Bucs roster, Licht is leaving no stone unturned. 

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