Buccaneers: Five Bucs to watch in week five versus Patriots

By Zach Sauers | Oct 4, 2017

TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 11: Cornerback Brent Grimes #24 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is stopped by wide receiver Brandon Coleman #16 of the New Orleans Saints after intercepting a pass by quarterback Drew Brees during the fourth quarter of an NFL game on December 11, 2016 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images) /

3 of 6

COLLEGE STATION, TX – NOVEMBER 12: Justin Evansof the Texas A&M Aggies returns a kickoff 90 yards in the second quarter against the Mississippi Rebels pursues at Kyle Field on November 12, 2016 in College Station, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /

Safety- Justin Evans

Justin Evans makes this list due to the injuries at safety. Evans stepped in versus the New York Giants this past Sunday and did so with great success.

No blown coverage, no missed tackles, and he even prevented a two-point conversion to Beckham.

Since the season started, Evans has played sparingly for Defensive Coordinator Mike Smith yet he has taken full advantage of his opportunities. His four tackles on the stat sheet may not speak justice in proving Evans has progressed, but easing him into a full time role is exactly what this young Buc needs.

Now with injuries to both TJ Ward and Keith Tandy (who has said he is “fine”), Evans has the chance to play a more significant role against one of the better quarterbacks of our time.

Can the rookie prove he has progressed well enough to become a starter on this defense… or will he be targeted due to inexperience?

Home/Bucs News