Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Post-draft 53-man roster projection

Offensive Linemen (8)- Donovan Smith, Ali Marpet, Ryan Jensen, Demar Dotson, Alex Cappa, Caleb Benenoch, Evan Smith, Leonard Wester

What a difference a few months makes. The Tampa Bay offensive line will look much different in 2018 and it should be for the better. The biggest addition came in March, when the Bucs signed center Ryan Jensen to a four-year, $42 million contract. That was a big move in more ways than one, as it also allows Ali Marpet to slide back to guard. Marpet, who has been good in both roles, is set to play on the left side.

2018 is an important year for Donovan Smith, as he is in a contract year. The big man has been good at times for Tampa Bay, but he will need to show consistency this year if he wants a nice contract next spring. He could be helped greatly by playing on the same side as Marpet, who should be reliable in that role. On the right side, Demar Dotson is back at tackle, while there are a couple of different options at guard.

J.R. Sweezy hasn’t been cleared from yet another injury and general manager Jason Licht seems to have doubts about his availability. The team can save nearly $5 million by cutting him, which is seeming more and more likely. Without him, Caleb Benenoch may be the initial option at right guard before rookie Alex Cappa finds his way into the starting lineup. Evan Smith and Leonard Wester have proven themselves as valuable depth pieces in the past, which should assure them each a spot on the roster. The roster spot previously occupied by Sweezy was filled in this projection by wide receiver Bobo Wilson.