Grading the signings of the new members of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
By Cory Kinnan
Deone Bucannon was the first player signed by the Buccaneers when free agency started, inking a one-year deal worth $3.5 million. The former first round pick of the Arizona Cardinals played under Arians and defensive coordinator Todd Bowles in Arizona, and wanted to return to familiar faces after being misused and yanked out of the starting lineup by former head coach Steve Wilks.
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
With the departure of Kwon Alexander and the need for a safety, the Bucs were wise to sign a player like Bucannon, who can do both. Originally drafted as a strong safety, Bucannon has been playing the hybrid moneybacker role for three years, and had the most success of his career with Bowles.
While Bucannon is not an elite defender in this league and may not live up to what Alexander was able to do in Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers got a quality defender who has recorded over 100 tackles in multiple years in Arizona. At just 26 years old, Bucannon still has plenty in the tank and a large chip on his shoulder.
If the former Cardinal can return to the form that he played in under Bowles a few years ago, then he will see a massive payday. For now, the Bucs got him a huge bargain deal.