The Pewter Plank
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 3 strongest positions heading into 2018

By Ryan Doyle

ATLANTA, GA - NOVEMBER 26: Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers makes a catch in front of Robert Alford #23 of the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - NOVEMBER 26: Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers makes a catch in front of Robert Alford #23 of the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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TAMPA, FL – AUGUST 30: Gerald McCoy #93 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers warms up during a preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Raymond James Stadium on August 30, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL – AUGUST 30: Gerald McCoy #93 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers warms up during a preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Raymond James Stadium on August 30, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Defensive line

The strength of the Tampa Bay defense lies up front. Two former All-Pros in Jason Pierre-Paul and Gerald McCoy will anchor a unit filled with veteran linemen.

Versatility will be the key in the trenches for Tampa Bay. With multiple players able to play both inside and outside, there are endless combinations defensive coordinator Mike Smith can throw at an opposing offense. As the defending Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles, the Bucs will keep fresh legs on the field at all times.

Injuries have hit the interior line hard early on. Mitch Unrein is already on the injured reserve with concussion issues, and Vita Vea probably won’t be ready to go for the season opener. Still, Beau Allen is a suitable replacement and William Gholston performed admirably inside during the preseason.

The defensive end position is looking healthier for the start of the season. Vinny Curry and the newly acquired Carl Nassib are ready to make some noise. Noah Spence might be a factor too. The former second-round pick could be the X-factor with his ability to rush the passer.

Next. Buccaneers: 4 players entering make-or-break seasons. dark

The Bucs finished last in the NFL with 22 sacks last season, the big bodies up front need to get to the opposing quarterback and take the pressure off of a young secondary.

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