NFL Trade Deadline: Buccaneers trade and free agent needs
By Rob Leeds
Pass rusher
The Buccaneer pass rush has looked stellar to start the season. Shaquil Barrett, Jason Pierre-Paul, and Ndamukong Suh have been able to take advantage of favorable matchups on a weekly basis to dominate some of the best offensive lines in the NFL.
While the starters have played at a very high level, the backups haven’t lived up to their billing yet. Anthony Nelson showed some flashes during camp, but he needs more time to develop in a deeper role.
The best bet for the Buccaneers at that third spot from now on is to bring in a veteran presence with a proven track record to spell JPP and Barrett from time to time.
Consistent pass rushers are some of the most significant commodities in the NFL. Their price often comes at a premium (unless they are going to the Ravens), and the Bucs may not want to trade for an older player that won’t be on the roster forever.
The player that makes the most sense is Clay Matthews. Matthews has put together an incredible career rushing the passer, and he would be the perfect cheap addition in Tampa Bay.
As far as trades are concerned, the Bucs could target some of the teams at the bottom of the table that are trying to clean house. The Jets, Giants, and Jaguars have already started to clear the deck a little bit. The Buccaneers could go after some of the proven players, which would give these other teams the draft capital they are looking for.