6 things the Buccaneers should be thankful for

Young building blocks on defense

There’s nowhere to go but up for the Tampa Bay defense. Despite allowing over 30 points per contest, the Bucs have reason to be optimistic about where their defense is heading.

General manager Jason Licht tried to add a veteran presence to the defense, but it hasn’t panned out. Injuries and poor play have forced rookies into more significant roles as they use 2018 as a developmental year.

It’s been a steep learning curve for many of the rookies, especially the defensive backs, but look at the players who could be around for the future.

Vita Vea will anchor the middle of the defensive line once Gerald McCoy‘s time is up and Kwon Alexander will hold down the second level.

Justin Evans and Carlton Davis provide reasons to be hopeful about the secondary. Davis has started opposite Brent Grimes for the entire season.

While it may be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel, if these young players pan out, Tampa Bay can rebuild the unit.