The Pewter Plank
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Five Buccaneers Who Must Step Up in 2016

By Alan Schechter

Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter speaks to the media during the NFL scouting combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter speaks to the media during the NFL scouting combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 20, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Alterraun Verner (21) runs back an interception against the New Orleans Saints during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Buccaneers defeated the Saints 26-19. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 20, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Alterraun Verner (21) runs back an interception against the New Orleans Saints during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Buccaneers defeated the Saints 26-19. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

Alterraun Verner

We can say a lot of similar things about Verner that we have already said about Banks.  The secondary was bad, and everyone involved must get better.  Alterraun Verner is on that list.  Verner was ranked as the 91st best corner in the NFL by Pro Football Focus.  Better?  Yes.  Not nearly good enough, however.  An improved pass rush with Robert Ayres and whomever they choose in the draft will help, but the corners have to play better.

After a five interception performance in 2013, earning him a Pro Bowl appearance, Verner has posted just three interceptions over the last two seasons.  Verner, like Banks, has to make plays on the football, and he has to do it more often.  An improved pass rush combined with good coverage on the outside will make a lethal combination.

Next: Buccaneers' Seven Round Mock Draft

Many players have to step up for the Bucs in the upcoming season.  We have identified five.  Who do you guys believe must step their games up for Tampa?  Sound off in the comments below.

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