Mike Daniels a worthy pursuit for Tampa Bay Buccaneers
By Cory Kinnan
How much would it cost the Buccaneers?
It would a wise and worthy pursuit if the Buccaneers chose to go all in on Daniels in order to add a third solid starter along their three man front. The problem, as always, remains the salary cap as the Buccaneers have just about $3 million to spend.
The Cleveland Browns, another team reportedly interested in Daniels’ services, are considered to be more of a contender this season (that feels weird to write), and have $32 million in cap space. It is safe to say that they can make Daniels a better offer, but playing for Bowles, playing in warm weather, and other situational factors could come in to play.
Daniels was set to make nearly $8 million from the Packers this season, why many think he was cut. However he is consistently graded high according to PFF (subscription required), but did miss six games last season and two more the year before that.
In order to clear more cap space the Buccaneers could explore a trade of second string tight end Cameron Brate, cutting William Gholston, or attempting to restructure a contract just as Mike Evans has done in the past. With Suh getting $9 million this offseason and McCoy getting about $8 million, do not expect Daniels to settle for much less than this at about the same age as the two other players mentioned.
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If the Buccaneers are willing to shed some more cap, and if Daniels wants significant playing time, then the two may be a solid match as he looks to prolong his career. The fit is there, but will the price and situation be right for Daniels?