Buccaneers: Drafting an OT is the difference in a Super Bowl

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 01: Head coach Bruce Arians of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers watches the action during the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field on December 01, 2019 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 01: Head coach Bruce Arians of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers watches the action during the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field on December 01, 2019 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are on the cusp of becoming legitimate playoff competitors, but it all starts with their offensive tackle selection in the draft.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have taken major steps during the 2020 offseason to becoming legitimate playoff contenders- and maybe even more- beginning this coming season.

While Buccaneers fans remain excited about the additions of Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski, as well as other re-signings, the big question remains as we head into the 2020 NFL Draft: Can they draft an offensive tackle to protect Brady?

It’s been more than 12 years since Tampa Bay made the NFL playoffs, but with the addition of an extra spot in the playoffs and a renewed confidence in the organization, there is reason to believe they can make a run at the postseason. It all starts with the NFL Draft.

Honestly, it’s not just about drafting an offensive tackle– it’s about drafting the right offensive tackle. That’s the difference for the Buccaneers between just barely making the postseason and becoming a legitimate contender for the Super Bowl.

The Bucs have an absolutely explosive lineup offensively. Tom Brady has plenty of wide receiver options and it’s clear that the skill position players are going to be a headache for opposing defenses to deal with during the season.

That being said, Brady has to have protection to make anything happen.

As we said before, it’s not just about drafting an offensive tackle. It’s about making the right decision.

Even out of this group of top four offensive tackles, the Buccaneers have to have a little bit of luck involved in their pick. Just looking at the sheer numbers, there’s a great chance that at least one of those top four offensive tackles turn out to be a complete bust. Can you imagine if Tampa Bay choose to trade up and ended up with a bust?

It simply just cannot happen.

The Bucs have to hit on their offensive tackle selection- whether it be through trading up, staying at No. 14 or trading back. There’s no room for error and it’s the difference between continuing in mediocrity and taking the step towards being championship contenders.

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