The Buccaneers had a successful offseason by keeping their veteran core together, re-signing key players like Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans, Antoine Winfield, and Lavonte David. However, they also had to part ways with three mainstays of their Super Bowl defense – Carlton Davis, Shaq Barrett, and Devin White. In their place, younger and less proven players like Zyon McCollum, K.J. Britt, and Chris Braswell will need to step up and fill the void left by their predecessors.
Defensive coordinator Todd Bowles expressed confidence in the new leaders on defense, highlighting the experience and potential of the incoming players. Players like McCollum, who started nine games last season, and Britt, who took over for White and showed promise, will be crucial in maintaining the team’s defensive strength.
The Bucs have relied heavily on their defense under Bowles, winning games even when the offense scored 21 points or fewer. Despite ranking low in total defense and passing defense, they excelled in red-zone defense and against the run. Britt, who has embraced a leadership role on the defense, and McCollum, a playmaker looking to make a mark in the NFL, will be key players to watch this season.
With the departure of Barrett, the Bucs will need a collective effort from their pass-rush rotation to make up for his absence. Young players like Tryon-Shoyinka and Nelson, along with rookie Braswell, will have to step up and contribute to the team’s sack production.
Looking ahead, the Bucs will face tough offensive opponents in the upcoming season, including the Cowboys, 49ers, Ravens, Lions, Eagles, and Chiefs. How well the new defensive starters adapt and perform will be crucial in facing these challenging matchups and maintaining the team’s competitive edge.
Overall, the Bucs have made strategic moves to strengthen their defense and prepare for the upcoming season. With a mix of experienced veterans and young talents, the team is poised to build on their previous successes and continue to be a force in the NFL.