For the first time in full pads, the Buccaneers have completed day four of training camp. Here are some highlights.
With the stands packed with Buccaneers fans, the first full-padded practice is in the books and there are certainly some high points to touch on. Pewter Report’s Mark Cook was on 620 WDAE and spoke about Noah Spence, who has been taking a lot of snaps with the first team defensive line. Cook said the people within the organization he’s spoken with say Spence “has come as advertised”, which is certainly music to our ears. Spence was a second round pick by the Bucs in order to help a dismal pass rush.
Dirk Koetter excited to see rookie Noah Spence in full pads: "If you ask any of our o-linemen, that guy's lightning off the edge."
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) July 29, 2016
Doug Martin seemed to be the star of the day as he is picking up right where he left off in 2015;
#Bucs RB @DougMartin22 practices every practice like a rookie trying to make the team. Looks great through four days.
— PewterReport 🏴☠️ (@PewterReport) July 31, 2016
Doug Martin’s success is crucial for the Bucs offense to continue to grow and develop from its record breaking numbers of last season. So far, so good on that front.
The secondary seems to still be on the rise, including first round pick Vernon Hargreaves who has worked with both the first and second teams so far.
WR-CB drills obviously favor the offense but the CBs started out on fire today. Vernon Hargreaves started a run of 4 straight PBUs.
— Scott Smith (@ScottSBucs) July 31, 2016
No major injuries of note again today, which is always the biggest win after a practice. Rookie Caleb Benenoch rolled his ankle early on but won’t miss any time.
Cameron Brate and Jameis Winston connected multiple times as Brate continues to emerge as one of Winston’s favorite targets. They connected on a few third down conversions as well as Brate serving as Winston’s safety valve when he was under pressure from Noah Spence.
#Bucs QB Winston under pressure from Noah Spence gets dump off to Cam Brate on run.
— Roy Cummings (@RCummingsFHCN) July 31, 2016
Move the chains! #Bucs https://t.co/RjBvOs5D4m
— The Pewter Plank (@ThePewterPlank) July 31, 2016
All in all, another successful day for the Bucs as they went through individual and 11-on-11 drills without suffering any injuries or setbacks. The emergence of Noah Spence is certainly something to keep an eye on moving forward. Many people, us included, didn’t believe he’d be a day one starter, but so far he’s getting a lot of work with the starters signaling the potential for him to earn that role.
Next: Roberto Aguayo Talks Pressure, Expectations
Buccaneers practice tomorrow will again be open to the public in the usual 8:45-10:45 a.m. time slot.