Buccaneers: 5 potential cap casualties in 2019
By Ryan Doyle
TE Cameron Brate
Tampa Bay signed Cameron Brate to a long-term contract in 2018. The six-year deal was a team-friendly deal for the Bucs as they can cut Brate without any dead cap starting this offseason.
The solid backup tight end is solid depth at the tight end position, but he is due $7 million next season. O.J. Howard was emerging before his injury against the Giants back in November, Brate’s value has plummetted.
More from The Pewter Plank
- Devin White posts cryptic message to Lavonte David on Twitter
- ESPN predicts surprising outcome to Devin White trade saga
- Updated Buccaneers depth chart after signing two players from rookie minicamp
- Todd Bowles sends clear message about Baker Mayfield’s role with Bucs
- The Athletic is wrong about Bucs one ‘must-watch’ game in 2023
Brate’s quiet play of late also doesn’t help his chances. Since Howard has been out of the lineup, Brate has averaged just 20 yards per game. The production that he had in the past is no longer there, and unless the Bucs don’t trust Howard to stay healthy next season, they could use that money to sure up another position.
RT Demar Dotson
Veteran tackle Demar Dotson has seen better days. The 33-year-old has battled injuries and issues run blocking in. According to PFF, Dotson is in the middle of the worst run blocking season of his career.
Still, Dotson remains one of the best linemen on the team. He has his hands full correcting the mistakes of the right guard next to him, so his plate remains full every week. If the Bucs can find a more reliable player next season, Dotson should find more success.
Tampa Bay has plenty of issues up front, but Dotson isn’t one of the top priorities. However, if age catches up to him, the new coaching staff could find a more youthful option.