Projecting Buccaneers’ Camp Battle Winners
By James Yarcho
Defensive End
Now, despite selecting Noah Spence in the second round of the draft, don’t expect Spence to be the day one starter at defensive end for the Bucs. That distinction will go to Jacquies Smith and free agent acquisition Robert Ayers.
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I realize that will be somewhat unpopular, but the truth is Spence is going to be more of a situational player in the first half, and possibly all, of his rookie season. Defensive coordinator Mike Smith is going to gameplan to the strengths of his players and early on, and that means putting Spence in passing situations. Smith did well for the Bucs last season, posting seven sacks, three forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and a touchdown in twelve games. Robert Ayers is coming off a nine sack season for the Giants having also only played in twelve games.
Both of these players are better suited to start in week one for the Bucs, but expect a consistent and heavy rotation along the defensive line, allowing Spence to see plenty of action in his inaugural season.
Next: Number Three Receiver