Depth positions that the Buccaneers have to address now
By Rob Leeds
The Buccaneers likely have their starters figured out for 2020, but additional depth pieces are necessary before the start of the season.
Through free agency and the draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have constructed one of their most impressive rosters in franchise history. From signing Tom Brady as a free agent to finding one of the best prospects in the 2020 NFL Draft in Tristan Wirfs, Tampa Bay is in a great position for the immediate future.
With the bulk of free agency over, the Bucs have mostly solidified their starters for the 2020 NFL season. There will still be a competition for starting safety, but Antoine Winfield Jr. appears to be an obvious lock.
Outside of the secondary, starting roles across the roster have been filled leading into training camp. There could be some surprises on the final depth chart, but it seems unlikely.
The best news for the Bucs is that now they can focus on building depth behind their starters as a means to create a team with the legs to compete late in the season and the playoffs.
If the Buccaneers want to live up to the massive expectations that are surrounding the team, creating sufficient depth during the remainder of this offseason is imperative.
While it is never what a team hopes for or expects, having a quality backup could prevent the season from coming to an early end if an injury occurs to a starter.
Unfortunately, there is no replacement for Tom Brady. If he were to get injured, the season is likely over for the Buccaneers. Blaine Gabbert is talented for a backup, but his ceiling as a starter is not very high for an extended period, even in the high-powered Buccaneer offense.
Although a quarterback is not easy to replace, there are some positions that the Bucs have to address before the start of the season. Cap space may be limited, but spending money on these positions could potentially save the season down the road.