Tampa Bay Buccaneers 53-man roster projection 4.0
By Ryan Doyle
Offense (25)
Quarterbacks – Ryan Fitzpatrick, Ryan Griffin (2)
With Jameis Winston suspended for the first three games of the season, Tampa Bay will only keep two quarterbacks on the roster. The extra roster spot will be used for additional depth.
An additional offensive lineman or linebacker could be the play, as depth has been a concern throughout the preseason at those positions.
Running backs – Peyton Barber, Ronald Jones, Jacquizz Rodgers, Shaun Wilson (4)
No movement here. Dare Ogunbowale has continued to make plays, but he is a practice squad candidate. It’s been great to see Peyton Barber run away with the starting running back job as well.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tight ends – O.J. Howard, Cameron Brate, Anthony Auclair, Alan Cross (4)
Wide receivers – Mike Evans, DeSean Jackson, Chris Godwin, Adam Humphries, Justin Watson, Freddie Martino (6)
The top four are settled at wideout, but the fifth spot was one of the most anticipated battles heading into camp. Justin Watson has already secured it. In the previous roster projection, Tampa Bay only kept five wideouts. Adding Martino to the mix helps the special teams and adds depth with plenty of experience.
Tackles – Donovan Smith, Demar Dotson, Leonard Wester, Mike Liedtke (4)
Hopefully, Donovan Smith will be ready to go in the season opener against the New Orleans Saints. If he can’t, head coach Dirk Koetter is going to have a dilemma on his hands.
Leonard Wester entered training camp as the primary tackle replacement, but he has been hampered with an injury during the preseason. Mike Liedtke has stepped in Wester’s absence and performed exceptionally well. Both players should make this roster for the extra depth.
Interior offensive linemen – Ali Marpet, Caleb Benenoch, Alex Cappa, Evan Smith, Ryan Jensen (5)
No major surprises here. All five players should be on the final roster, Bucs will keep nine offensive linemen to open up the season.