Buccaneers: A very early June depth chart prediction

3 of 4

Jan 1, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy (93) reacts to the fans after they beat the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina Panthers 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Defense

LDE- William Gholston, Ryan Russell, George Johnson Jr.

LDT- Gerald McCoy, Clinton McDonald

RDT- Chris Baker, Stevie Tu’ikolovatu

RDE- Robert Ayers Jr., Noah Spence, Jacquies Smith

SAM- Kendell Beckwith, Devante Bond

MIKE- Kwon Alexander, Richie Brown

WILL- Lavonte David

CB1- Brent Grimes, Ryan Smith

CB2- Vernon Hargreaves, Josh Robinson

NICKEL- Javien Elliot, Robert McClain

SS- Keith Tandy, JJ Wilcox

FS- Justin Evans, Chris Conte

Any surprises here? Should not be. For the first time in a quite a long time, the Bucs on paper look to have one of the better defensive units in the NFC South. For a defense that was able to turn the corner midway through the 2016 season, to add newcomers such as Chris Baker and rookies Justin Evans/Kendell Beckwith… this team is beginning to have a little “swag”.

If any question is found in the depth chart listed above, it could be that of the SAM linebacker position. As it stands now Devante Bond is the current starter at the position, but that may be just because third round draft pick Kendell Beckwith is still recovering from injury. Due to the fact Tampa moved up to draft Beckwith, the expectation is that he will be given a true look once he is able to return. Not only is Beckwith seen as the eventual starter at the SAM linebacker, but there has also been speculation that he may play some downs with his hand in the dirt.

No, Jude Adjei-Barimah? Hey Jude? Nope… not on this depth chart. After what it seems that Jude lost his spot this off-season to the undrafted rookie from 2016 Javien Elliot, Jude looks to be on the outside looking in for the cornerback competition. After General Manager Jason Licht brought in former Defensive Coordinator Mike Smith’s long time pal in Robert McClain… the cornerback room has become overpopulated. Losing a spot to an undrafted rookie and having a long time veteran in this defense join the team… may the odds be forever in your favor Jude.

Now… for the moment you have all been waiting for… who wins the kicking battle?!

Home/Bucs News