Offensive line
The offensive line did not live up to all of the offseason hype that they had improved after a year near the bottom of the league in rushing yards gained. Even after trading for offensive tackle Jerald Hawkins, the Buccaneers should look to make improvements if they hope to keep Jameis Winston upright and for their running backs to have lanes to run through.
Donovan Smith looks well overpaid after signing an extension worth $13 million annually this offseason just to lose grounding beneath his feet an average of twice per game. Right guard Alex Cappa, after receiving every first team rep during training camp, has looked completely overmatched this preseason.
The silver lining is veteran Demar Dotson and Pro Bowler Ali Marpet have looked surprising this preseason. Center Ryan Jensen is looking to rebound from a disappointing in his first year after signing a massive $10 million annual contract. If not, his guaranteed money expires at the end of this 2019 season and he could be on his way out of Tampa Bay.
An upgrade at right guard is almost a necessity, while more depth throughout would only help to benefit the Buccaneers’ roster. It would not be a shock for another offensive lineman to be added to the depth of the pewter and red before teams are done solidifying their rosters.