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Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The tight end depth chart

By Rob Leeds

ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 22: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL game against the Buffalo Bills on October 22, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 22: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL game against the Buffalo Bills on October 22, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /
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While the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have some deficiencies on their team, the Buccaneer tight end group could be one of the strongest in the NFL this year.

Having depth at any position will greatly help the Buccaneers in the upcoming make or break season. On a team that has been and looks to continue to be a pass-first offense, having tight ends that are capable and athletic goes a long way in having a fluid play style. The Buccaneers will look to utilize this depth to their advantage for Jameis Winston in 2019.

If you’re looking for a breakout star in the NFL look no further than tight end O.J. Howard. After a sophomore season that improved statistically on his rookie year despite fewer reps and games played Howard is looking to stay healthy for a full season and could very well make the Pro Bowl.

Howard has breakaway speed and athleticism that makes him a clear first option alongside Mike Evans through the air. Howard could very well have a season similar to George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers this past year and could be a staple on the Buccaneers for many years to come.

After O.J. Howard falls the ever-consistent Cameron Brate. Brate could likely be on the field at the same time as Howard for a large percentage of snaps so he may not fall as a true “backup” as the second stringer would be at most positions.

While Brate may not be as flashy as Howard his consistency is his claim to fame on the Buccaneer offense. Brate is the guy to trust in the red zone and has the capacity to win a one on one matchup depending on who he lines up against. Howard may get the bulk of the targets but Brate will make the most of the opportunities that he has on the field if he is still on the roster when the season starts.

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