The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a bright future as former number one overall pick Jameis Winston flashed promise in year one. Oddly enough heading into his second year the organization decided to fire its head coach and promote the offensive coordinator in the process. What does this mean for the Bucs as they head into 2016?
3 Position Battles To Watch:
- Cornerback: Brent Grimes vs. Alterraun Verner vs. Vernon Hargreaves vs. Jonathan Banks vs. Josh Robinson
This is has to be the deepest corner back group any team has in the NFL. All 5 players have realistic shots to start the season. Grimes and Verner being the vets of the group probably get the first crack. Rookie first rounder Vernon Hargreaves will force his way into action at some point.
2. Tight End: Austin Seferian-Jenkins vs. Cameron Brate vs. Luke Stocker vs. Brandon Myers
There is no question that Seferian-Jenkins is the most talented but he is also a huge knucklehead. Stocker is essentially a blocking tight end only and the opposite can be said for Brate. Myers could be in danger of making the roster as he was inactive for a bunch of games last season.
3. Return Man: Adam Humphries vs. Donteea Dye vs. Kenny Bell vs. Charles Simms
Sure it sounds ridiculous but the winner may get some action at receiver too. The Bucs may have a tough decision on who to keep so the winner of this battle could save them a roster spot in the process.
Ready To Breakout: Kwon Alexander
The Bucs already have a play-making undersized linebacker in LeVonte David. If Alexander develops into the same, Tampa could have one scary defense. Entering his second season Alexander looks to improve on a 93 tackle rookie campaign.
Fantasy Sleeper: Jameis Winston
I think people are overlooking Winston in the fantasy rankings. Entering year two, I expect the offense to take the training pedals off a little allowing him to open up more. I think Winston is a Cam Newton caliber style quarterback, it’s just a matter of when it happens.
Rookie To Watch: Roberto Aguayo
Yes he is a kicker but a hell of a good one. Tampa Bay spent a 2nd round pick on the Florida State kicker and he was worth every penny. Aguayo did not miss during his collegiate career and will make the Bucs better just by making more field goals than they did a year ago. (I approved Tampa’s draft with the selections of Hargreaves and Noah Spence).
