Buccaneers: Four veterans that should see a rise in their statistics in 2017

Dec 11, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter looks on against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 11, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter looks on against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 11, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter looks on against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 11, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter looks on against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Here are four Buccaneers veterans that should see their numbers grow in 2017.

The Buccaneers enter the 2017 season with a lot of exciting young players on the roster. O.J. Howard is a name that sticks out. His pass catching abilities are going to help open things up for the offense in the red zone. What about Noah Spence? With over five sacks as a rookie, he is looking poised to take the next step in his development as a pass rusher. Vernon Hargreaves is another one. He is set to take a leap forward as a cover corner.

It’s an exciting team with exciting young players. But, those aren’t the ones we are talking about this morning. Who are we talking about? We are talking about the other end of the spectrum, the veteran players.

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The Bucs are in the unique position of actually having talented young players and veterans alike. In these types of situations, these players learn from each other, and grow because of each other. The young players are taught the ropes by the older players. They get comfortable quickly and perform better, sooner.

The veterans also reap the benefits. When there are talented players alongside them, they get a lot more open room to roam. This can often lead to a rise in a particular veteran’s statistics. It becomes a solid partnership that can take the team forward to greatness.

Here are four Bucs veterans that should see their stats rise, thanks to the acquisition and/or development of young players.