TAMPA- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are now on the cusp of the franchise and transition tagging period set by the NFL and NFLPA but in the meantime have some free agent targets they’re taking a close look at.
From potentially upgrading at the quarterback position to beefing up the defensive side of the ball, the Buccaneers are keeping many of their options on the table this spring. The biggest question obviously surrounds the quarterback position with Jameis Winston. Everyone is waiting to see if Tampa Bay brings Winston back on a short term deal or lets him walk.
A lot of players are ones of interest for the Buccaneers as they head into the free agency period and there are many names circulating around the NFL on who may make their way to Tampa Bay. Below we list some names to watch for in a free agency and speculated trades.
Tom Brady, quarterback: Who wouldn’t want to add Tom Brady onto their team? The prize jewel of this year’s free-agent class is shopping around his worth and the Buccaneers would check off a lot of boxes when it comes to things Brady wants. Top-flight wide receivers and good tight ends, Tampa Bay has plenty. Brady in pewter and red sounds extremely enticing.
Phillip Rivers, quarterback: Phillip Rivers moving his family down to Florida this off-season was the story heard round the area in Tampa Bay, as it brought more speculation that the longtime Los Angeles Chargers’ signal-caller could become a Buccaneer. A lot of signs point to, however, that Rivers could become an Indianapolis Colt.
Teddy Bridgewater, quarterback: With Drew Brees announcing his intentions to return in 2020, that leaves a logjam at the quarterback position in New Orleans. Taysom Hill seems to be the heir apparent to Brees, leaving Bridgewater as the odd man out. Bridgewater to Tampa Bay brings familiarity with the division and a safer pick when it comes to taking care of the football compared to Winston.
Darius Slay, cornerback: Tampa Bay’s secondary was young and that’s putting it into nice terms. The Buccaneers’ secondary was one of the youngest units in the NFL, with most of the players having two seasons or less of experience. Bringing in a veteran that can help this youthful group grow would be a nice addition and former Detroit Lions’ cornerback Darius Slay is a name to watch for on the trade block.
Jack Conklin, offensive tackle: The Tennessee Titans were able to run the ball and effectively behind one of the top offensive lines in the NFL. Conklin was on that offensive line and Tampa Bay needs better offensive tackle play. The aging Demar Dotson is a name to watch on the block as one starter that could be replaced via draft or free agency.
Andy Villamarzo Phone- 727.946.5950 Email- [email protected] Twitter- @avillamarzo
