Buccaneers: A very early 53-man roster prediction

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Jan 1, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive back Vernon Hargreaves III (28) reacts after the Carolina Panthers failed on a two point conversion attempt to tie the game in the second half at Raymond James Stadium. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina Panthers 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /

Cornerback-(6)

Vernon Hargreaves III, Brent Grimes, Ryan Smith, Robert McClain, Jude Adjei-Barimah, Josh Robinson

The Bucs get both of their starting corner-backs back for the 2017 campaign. Both Vernon Hargreaves III and Brent Grimes had successful seasons in their first years in the Bay area, and the expectation like much of the defense is continued growth. The starting pair looked sharp this past season, and as for second year man Hargreaves, the sky is the limit.

As for the final corner spot in the slot, the competition will be fierce. Not only will both returning slot corners Jude Adjei-Barimah and Javien Elliot fight for the respected position, but Tampa also added free agent Robert McClain and second year Ryan Smith the mix. As it stands right now, McClain or Adjei-Barimah look to be the favorites which could help them keep a roster spot. As for Smith, the failed safety project is back at corner and should see most of his time on the outside as the backup for the starters.

Josh Robinson, whose name is listed above in the list, makes this team solely due to his special teams impact. Robinson was retained this off-season with a hefty price all due to his play throughout the 2016 campaign on special teams. Robinson did not see the field on defense, but his role playing ability is enough to edge out his competition.

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