Buccaneers: Stealing one player from each NFC South opponent
By Rob Leeds
![Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Photo by Larry French/Getty Images) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Photo by Larry French/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/ee3c1547ad70f28fae80d83cc303ff2230717a5d79a3ad50ca3b26f57a37bbf7.jpg)
Brian Burns-Carolina Panthers
In this dream scenario, the Bucs are looking for players that are a good fit, but longevity is also an essential factor. Youth and talent are the two main characteristics in play, and that brings the focus to edge defender Brian Burns.
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The final decision was between Burns and All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey. McCaffrey seems like the obvious choice, but his position will be addressed later.
Burns is the next-best option due to the fact that he would easily be the best EDGE3 in the NFL and would step into the starting outside linebacker role alongside Shaquil Barrett after the 2020 season ends.
After starting in just five games last season, Burns accounted for 7.5 sacks and 16 quarterback hits. This ratio was extremely impressive, especially considering how few reps he actually received. With stats like those above, while only getting to play approximately 43% of the defensive snaps on the season, it is clear that Brian Burns is a star in the making.
With pass rusher being such a vital position, the Buccaneers can strengthen that position for years to come with this move and will fill a hole that is quickly approaching.
Jason Pierre-Paul still has some gas in the tank, but the Bucs do need to start looking towards the future.