Ten Players the Buccaneers Must Explore in Free Agency

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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Oct 4, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers cornerback Patrick Robinson (26) pressures Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) during the 1st half at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers cornerback Patrick Robinson (26) pressures Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) during the 1st half at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Patrick Robinson

We have sung the praises of Patrick Robinson before. The Bucs’ top cornerback posted a PFF grade of 1.4. Robinson posted a 5.7. Quarterbacks completed 70% of their passes against the Tampa Bay defense, yet Robinson only allowed 58% to be completed. He also only allowed 8.9 yards per reception, which was good for second in the NFL.

Robinson would be an immediate upgrade at cornerback.

Robinson only made $2 million last season. It will take a raise, but it won’t take elite money to bring him in. A $4 million a year type of contract might just be enough to do it. The Bucs’ need players that can cover, as they were ripped to shreds last season. Giving up 31 touchdowns as a pass defense is simply unacceptable, and that type of play will keep the Buccaneers from getting to the next level.

Patrick Robinson can help bridge that gap.

Next: Janoris Jenkins

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