The Pewter Plank
FanSided

Ten Players the Buccaneers Must Explore in Free Agency

By Alan Schechter

Jan 15, 2016; Tampa Bay, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneer general manager Jason Licht introduces Dirk Koetter as the new head coach at One Buccaneer Place Auditorium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 15, 2016; Tampa Bay, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneer general manager Jason Licht introduces Dirk Koetter as the new head coach at One Buccaneer Place Auditorium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Quinton Patton (11) eludes St. Louis Rams free safety Rodney McLeod (23) after making a catch in overtime at Levi
Jan 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Quinton Patton (11) eludes St. Louis Rams free safety Rodney McLeod (23) after making a catch in overtime at Levi /

Rodney McLeod

Who was ranked just higher than Eric Weddle? Rodney McLeod. He was tied for the 10th best safety in the league with a PFF grade of 8.2. He’s durable, starting every game over the last three seasons in St. Louis. He also held quarterbacks to a completion percentage of 57%. With a 12.0 tackle efficiency rating, he can come up and stop the run as well, aside from keeping his yards after the catch down.

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He also made a lot less money than Weddle. Last season, McLeod made $2.3 million. Yes, he would take a decent raise, as after a strong season comes the big contract. However, improving the backline of the defense is essential to the continued improvement of the Bucs. Like Mike Maccagnan of the Jets did in 2015, Jason Licht is going to have to spend some money back there to see significant improvements.

What do you guys think? Sound off below.

Salary information courtesy of Over the Cap

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