Buccaneers: What’s going on with these invisible players?

Khalil Davis

Rounding out this list with a rookie, Khalil Davis has been a questionable omission for the Buccaneers so far this season. After displaying incredible athleticism during the combine and playing well during camp, Davis not getting more reps now comes as a surprise.

The Buccaneer defensive line is one of the best in the NFL right now. It makes perfect sense that Todd Bowles wants to keep his starters on the field for as long as possible, but Davis should still get some chances to reach the field as a depth piece.

With the injury to Vita Vea, Davis looked like one of the players that would step into a slightly larger role (not at nose tackle), but various injuries and other issues have kept the rookie lineman off the field.

Instead of bumping Davis’ playing time up, the Buccaneers have made several moves, including trading for a veteran nose tackle to replace Vea. Davis could still be the odd man out, and development at this point is pivotal.

Even with the defensive line performing at this level, the coaching staff will need to figure out how to get Davis on the field. The rookie’s upside is too big to ignore, and the Bucs will need to figure out what they have in their young lineman sooner than later.