Buccaneers: Biggest Surprise Players of 2016

Dec 11, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter watches the scoreboard during a review late in the second half against the New Orleans Saints at Raymond James Stadium. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the New Orleans Saints 16-11. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 4, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Jacquizz Rodgers (32) runs the ball during the second half against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Tampa Bay won 28-21. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

Jacquizz Rodgers

The Bucs running game needed help right from the start. Dirk Koetter was looking for depth behind Doug Martin and Charles Sims. Neither of them looked particularly good in week one, and the depth chart behind them was thin, so Rodgers was signed. He had limited success in the past with the Falcons, but was never a featured back.

Then the unthinkable happens, Martin and Sims run into injury problems. What happens to the Bucs running attack? Rodgers happened to it. He took over and led the team with 560 rushing yards and a 4.9 yards per carry average. He posted back-to-back 100 yard rushing performances including a 154 yard showing against the 49ers. Rodgers got the job done better than he ever had before.

–Alan Schechter

Next: The Nightmare Off-Season Scenario

There are our thoughts, now we want to hear from you. Who was your biggest surprise? Sound off in the comments.

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