Buccaneers: Five Big Ticket Potential Free Agent Options

Alshon Jeffrey

The Bucs need an option on the opposite side of Mike Evans. They could bring back Vincent Jackson, but as of late, neither the production or effort has seemed to be there. That ship has sailed in Tampa. It’s time for some new blood at the wide receiver position. They need a guy that can take some of the pressure off of Evans. They need a guy that can make a catch in the red zone so all eyes aren’t on Evans.

Let’s talk about Alshon Jeffrey. He stands at 6’4″ tall, which is a great size as a target down deep in the opponent’s territory. He’s done well in the red zone throughout his career to date, with 24 receptions and 14 of them going for touchdowns. Just under 1/3 of his 26 career touchdown catches have come in the fourth quarter, showing his ability to be clutch.

Jeffrey is just two seasons removed from a ten touchdown performance. From 2013-2014, he averaged 87 receptions and 1,277 receiving yards per year. 2013 was good enough to earn him a trip to the Pro Bowl. He’s only 27 years old with a lot of football left. Yes, there has been a decline in production over the last two years. Yes, he has been injured and served with a drug suspension.

Even with that, he has posted over 800 yards in each of the last two seasons, which is more than good enough for an effective sidekick opposite Evans.