The Pewter Plank
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Trading O.J. Howard: Is it an option for Buccaneers?

By Rob Leeds

TAMPA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 22: Tight end O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers runs the ball against cornerback Deandre Baker #27 of the New York Giants during the game at Raymond James Stadium on September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 22: Tight end O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers runs the ball against cornerback Deandre Baker #27 of the New York Giants during the game at Raymond James Stadium on September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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CHARLOTTE, NC – NOVEMBER 04: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers during the first half of their game at Bank of America Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC – NOVEMBER 04: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers during the first half of their game at Bank of America Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Rumors are swirling about trading TE O.J. Howard after a slow start to the season; the Buccaneers have to wonder what they can get for the Alabama product.

As the 2019 season begins to look more bleak after the embarrassing loss to the Carolina Panthers in London on Sunday, news for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers continues to sour as rumors are beginning to come out that former first round pick tight end O.J. Howard is on the trading block. For a player that was expected to play at a Pro Bowl level this season this comes as a massive shock, but for anyone who has watched the games (or has O.J. on their fantasy teams) this may not be as big a surprise.

It seems as though Howard’s lack of production and inability to stay healthy are mixing with the new regime’s willingness to use other targets over O.J. to create the scenario where the third year tight end is on the trade block. From year-one to year-two, Howard has shown improvements both in receptions and yards despite a reduced work load due to injuries.

While there was an improvement, it seems as though year-three is off to a slow start as O.J.’s efficiency is beginning to drop. Howard averaged 16.6 yards per reception in both of his first two years and currently sits at 13.5 yards per carry, which is still good, but it begs the question as to why Howard isn’t receiving more touches.

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The entire situation is quite the dilemma as his lack of use makes little to no sense in any situations. Chris Godwin has stepped into a massive role as one of the best statistical receivers in the league and that is likely taking away receptions from Howard, but Howard should still be third in production on the team based on ability alone yet it feels as though he has been absent in most games. If it is already a foregone conclusion that the Bucs want Howard out, here are places that O.J. can land and the compensation that should be provided.

The best case scenario is that a team in desperate need of a tight end would be willing to give up a first or second round draft pick for a 24-year old, 6-6, 250 pound tight end that can run a 4.51 40 and block well. Anyone come to mind?

If you thought that the whole league could use a player like that then you’re probably right. Physical talent like that is practically unheard of and many teams would likely be willing to pay handsomely to find a player with O.J.’s talent.

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