3 upcoming Buccaneers free agents that have already earned extensions

Ndamukong Suh

While this site has typically been critical of Ndamukong Suh (based on his expensive price tag and normally replaceable production), it is impossible to deny that 2020 has seen a resurgence of the excellence seen earlier in Suh’s career.

The Buccaneer defensive line has been dominant during Suh’s tenure in Tampa Bay. The linemen have been able to shut down the run at a rate that is unmatched by the rest of the NFL, and the Bucs have also been able to generate pressure from the interior as well. Suh’s prowess is against the latter.

While William Gholston and Vita Vea usually are the run stuffers, Suh is the interior lineman with eyes for the quarterback. Todd Bowles‘ defense needs a player like Suh to bring pressure from the inside because it forces the hand of the offense.

When the Buccaneers are shutting down the run, opposing offenses only have one opportunity: to throw the ball. This leaves fewer players in front of the quarterback to block, allowing for limited double-team opportunities for the offensive line. If the offense prioritizes the outside pass-rushers, which is usually the case, Suh is left alone, leading to immediate pressure on the quarterback.

This three-pronged pass rush has allowed other players to get involved in the pass rush as well. Inside linebackers, safeties, and corners are freed up to bring the pressure as well, and Todd Bowles has taken advantage of these opportunities.

Much like Gronk, the Buccaneers would need Suh to take a team-friendly deal, but keeping him in Tampa Bay would ensure that the pass-rush continues to dominate the NFL.