Five Bold Predictions for the Buccaneers’ 2016 Season
Cameron Brate Takes the Starting TE Job
This prediction may already be in motion.
Brate is not the most explosive player at the tight end position on the Bucs’ roster. That distinction goes to Austin Seferian-Jenkins. With 146 receptions and 21 touchdowns in his college career, “ASJ” arrived in town with a lot of expectations. At 6’6″ tall, why not? That is the type of red zone weapon that coaches and coordinators dream of.
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But he can’t stay on the field. He has played 16 games over two seasons. I’m not a mathematician, but that’s 16 games too few. While on the field, Seferian-Jenkins has shown potential, with six TD’s in the two years, and a yards per reception in 2015 that exceeded 16 yards (16.1), behind Rob Gronkowski by .2 yards. But he can’t stay healthy.
Yesterday, we talked about the heads that Brate is turning during the off-season. The situation with “ASJ” being asked to leave practice has been well-documented. Being accused of “Not knowing what he is doing” is a strong charge. It’s a sign of a player that doesn’t get it. He doesn’t understand the hard work that it takes to get better.
It may not happen by week one, but by the end of the year, Brate will be the starter and he will remain as such, relegating “ASJ” to the bench.
Next: Prediction Number Four