Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 2 players to let walk, cut and re-sign
By Ryan Doyle
Re-Sign: LT Donovan Smith
This move is largely dependent on how Tampa Bay feels about adding a tackle with their first pick of the 2019 NFL Draft. If they are confident that they can land Alabama’s Jonah Williams, there may not be a reason to bring Smith back.
The problem is, there is no guarantee he will still be on the board if they pick fifth. Frankly, they may not think he is worth that selection. Whatever the case may be, there is a good chance that Donovan Smith will be back with the Bucs next season.
Bringing Smith back for another season has nothing to do with his top-tier play or development as a left tackle. It has more to do with the free agent market and lack of replacements available.
Smith will be one of the top offensive tackles on the market and could be worth nearly $15 million per year next season. Again, his play does not match the price, but it’s simple supply and demand.
Smith gave up the fourth-most pressures in the NFL last season, according to Pro Football Focus. He allowed eight sacks in what was another up-and-down season for the Penn State product.
With no other options to turn to, the Bucs should franchise tag Smith and look for a long-term replacement in the Draft come April.