3 free agents for Buccaneers to sign to fix injury problems
By Rob Leeds
The most evident lack of depth on the Buccaneers roster, as it stands, is at running back. The Bucs had a great group to start the season with Ronald Jones, Leonard Fournette, and LeSean McCoy, but injuries to McCoy and Fournette have left the team reeling.
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The Bucs only had two running backs active on Thursday night versus the Bears, and while Jones and Ke’Shawn Vaughn performed well, the Bucs will still need added depth to serve as an insurance policy down the stretch of the season. The Bucs don’t have to invest a ton of money at running back, as they already have a few big names on the roster, but one additional free agent to provide depth wouldn’t hurt.
As far as free agents are concerned, Isaiah Crowell is one of the best in the league for the Buccaneers. Crowell can be a great between the tackles rusher, a speedy option on the outside, and has proven to be a great receiver over several years in the NFL. At 27 years old and coming off an injury, Crowell won’t be expensive, but he is a better option than most.
The Bucs still have cap space that could be better spent in other areas, but right now, quality depth is needed to support Jones and the rate that Tampa Bay runs the ball.
It is unlikely that Crowell would take touches away from Jones, and having another proven option in the backfield would only leave the Buccaneers better off than they originally were.
Crowell may not be a long-term option for the Buccaneer backfield, but this year would benefit both parties.