As the we continue to move closer to the NFL Draft, it seems like the time to trade Gerald McCoy is now or never for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The rumors continue to swirl regarding the future of perennial Pro Bowler and ten-year veteran Gerald McCoy. Will McCoy be back with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2019, or with the deep draft class along the defensive line, will the Bucs make a move for a younger defender?
McCoy is set to make an expensive $13 million in 2019, and while he is still productive, is a 30-year-old defensive lineman the key to the future of the Buccaneers anymore? With only $3.8 million in cap space after the first week of free agency, Tampa Bay could be looking to clear some more spending flexibility.
It is hard to think that there would not be a market for the All-Pro defensive tackle, but at the price tag of $13 million, it is understandable why teams may be hesitant to make a move for McCoy. However, a team such as the Indianapolis Colts or the New York Jets who have plenty of cap space could make the move; especially the Colts whose championship window is wide open.
However, in a make-or-break 2019 for the Buccaneers, they could opt to keep McCoy to avoid creating another hole in their roster and pay him his $13 million. As the draft rolls around, it seems like the time to trade the defensive tackle may be inching closer; only time will tell.
McCoy still has a bit left in the tank, and even at the age of 30, he is still producing to the tune of 78.3 according to Pro Football Focus, putting him in the green. He has recorded 54.5 sacks and 79 tackles for loss in his career, all in the pewter and red.
If the Buccaneers can get even more draft assets in a year with limited cap space and limited picks, it would be difficult for Tampa Bay to turn it down. However, losing a fan favorite like McCoy could create an unnecessary hole in a team that is hoping to compete for an NFC South title in 2019.