The 2023 season started out with plenty of positive for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, sitting at 3-1 after four games.
But, since then, Tampa Bay has lost three in a row and they are trying to figure out the answer to some key problems. At this year's trade deadline, the Bucs sat still and didn't make a move to try and help themselves, either, which begs the question: are they throwing in the towel on this season?
That doesn't necessarily mean giving up on the year, but the Bucs may be doing so without even realizing it. Continuing to settle for mediocrity essentially means Tampa Bay is fine with an even record and barely missing the playoffs, which puts them in an unfavorable position come draft time. At this point, fans know the Bucs aren't going to compete for a Super Bowl and would probably rather finish with a top-5 pick than stay somewhat competitive and obtain a pick in the teens.
With the future in mind, the Bucs are going to be seeing a lot of changes before the draft is here. They're going to see plenty of players and coaches walk out that door, but there are five in particular that we can bet are not coming back.
1. Devin White, Linebacker
This first one seems like a no-brainer. Former Pro Bowl linebacker Devin White has spent five seasons in Tampa Bay, but this past offseason he requested a trade because it didn't seem like the Bucs were going to give him a long-term deal.
White was not dealt at the trade deadline, of course, and looks like he is as good as gone next year when free agency hits. He's been good, and is deserving of a long-term deal. But, in all likelihood, White is going to be overpaid by another team, and the Bucs will be able to find a replacement via the draft, if there's not already someone on the roster who could step up (i.e. SirVocea Dennis or Yaya Diaby).