4 Bucs players who don't deserve to return next season, and 2 who do
By Ryan Heckman
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have somewhat stopped the bleeding after going 2-2 in their last four games, but this team is still far from where they need to be.
It's fair to say that no matter what happens down the stretch, the Bucs will need to make major changes in 2024 in order to compete in the coming years.
Looking ahead to their free agent class in the nearing offseason, we take a look at four free agents who do not deserve to be brought back, while two specific guys absolutely do. Let's start with the players who should be given the boot.
Running back Chase Edmonds doesn't need to return in 2024
The running back position has been a difficult one to watch this season, and a lot of it has to do with poor blocking in front. But, Rachaad White has still done the most with what he's had to work with, especially when given the ball in space and via the passing game.
Chase Edmonds has reached the point in his career, though, where teams should simply pass. He doesn't do anything at a high level except maybe pass block. Tampa Bay has to get younger and more explosive at this position, while also improving blocking up front.
Safety Ryan Neal needs to be sent packing with a first-class ticket to literally anywhere
Bucs fans would tell you, with a straight face, that they might rather eat a salted piece of cardboard than watch Ryan Neal play another down in pewter. Trust whichever grading outlet you'd like, but the fact of the matter is, Neal has been one of the worst safeties in football; no, one of the worst players in football, period.
There isn't much to say, because fans know exactly what I'm talking about. Watching Neal try and cover (keyword: try) has been excruciating. There are zero reasons to bring him back in 2024.