Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 3 potential Jason Pierre-Paul replacements

Shane Ray

After signing the vastly underutilized Barrett in free agency, the Buccaneers could now turn their attention to one of his teammates with the Denver Broncos, former first rounder in 2014 Shane Ray. Also missing time due to substance abuse violations, Ray never found his role with the Broncos, who did not pick up his fifth year option.

The youngest of the three names mentioned, Ray will be just 26 years old when the 2019 season starts, and has a chip on his shoulder after losing playing time in Denver. Tampa Bay could be his best opportunity to get the playing time he desires and he could have the chance to reunite with Barrett as well.

Throughout his four year career, Ray has totaled 14 sacks, with eight coming in 2016. Over the last two seasons, Ray has managed just one sack apiece. However, playing in a crowded room with not only Barrett, but also Von Miller and Bradley Chubb, Ray’s production was marred by lack of reps.

Bowles may be able to unlock the potential of Ray, and he has the highest upside of any edge rushers left on the market. Ray may be the best option for the Buccaneers to pursue in case Pierre-Paul cannot play in 2019 or beyond.