As the NFL offseason progresses, teams are meticulously evaluating their rosters and identifying areas for improvement. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers find themselves in a unique position. After a roller-coaster 2023 season, the Buccaneers are poised to make strategic moves to strengthen their squad and make a serious run at the championship. With a mix of veteran leadership and promising young talent, the Buccaneers have the potential to address key gaps in their roster through astute trades. Here, we delve into three prime trade targets who could provide the necessary boost to propel Tampa Bay back to the top: Preston Smith, James Bradberry, and Dawson Knox.
The Buccaneers' 2023 Season
After a surprising postseason run, the Buccaneers entered the 2024 offseason with several roster gaps to address. Instead of relying on the open market, they prioritized retaining their own key players, many of whom ranked among the top free agents this year. With more cap space available now that Tom Brady’s contract is off the books, the Bucs have had to do less financial juggling. After securing key starters, they are already adding depth across the roster. Notable re-signings include Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans, and they also used the franchise tag on Antoine Winfield Jr, among others.
This offseason has been marked by significant moves for the Bucs, particularly in retaining some of the team's biggest names. As training camp approaches, could the Buccaneers still have another trade or two up their sleeves?
Here we'll look at the three players whom the Tampa Bay Buccaneers can consider their best target targets to round out the 2024 roster.
Preston Smith, LB
The Buccaneers might consider securing a top-tier pass rusher and ending the Joe Tryon-Shoyinka experiment. Although they drafted Chris Braswell, Tampa Bay would benefit from a proven starter. Green Bay's Preston Smith could be an ideal target if the price is right. The Packers might be willing to part with Smith. They have a potential replacement in last year's first-round pick Lukas Van Ness. In addition, Smith's $14 million cap hit in 2024 is substantial.
The Buccaneers would need to manage their cap space carefully. However, acquiring a player who has consistently recorded at least 8.0 sacks in each of the past three seasons would be a strategic move. With the Buccaneers aiming for another NFC South title this season, Smith could be the crucial piece they need to solidify their defense.
James Bradberry, CB
Currently, the Bucs are set to start 2022 fifth-round pick Zyon McCollum on the outside, opposite Jamel Dean. Last season, McCollum struggled, though. He allowed 47 receptions on 86 targets over 510 coverage snaps. He also yielded over 11 yards per reception and earning a PFF coverage grade of just 47.3.
The Eagles, on the other hand, have an abundance of cornerbacks after the draft. Rookies Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell have joined veterans Darius Slay and James Bradberry. This surplus might lead to one of these players being cut, traded, or benched.
Yes, Bradberry had a down year last season. However, he had a phenomenal 2022 campaign and remains an established name in the league. Given the struggles of Philly's defense last season, it's unfair to place the blame solely on Bradberry. If he becomes available, the Buccaneers should consider offering a late-round pick for him. Bradberry would provide an immediate upgrade over McCollum, solidifying the secondary.
Dawson Knox, TE
One position the Bucs were expected to address this offseason was tight end, but they made no significant moves. This leaves Cade Otton as the starter for 2024. However, trading for someone like Dawson Knox could change that scenario. The Bills, who drafted Dalton Kincaid in the first round last year, used both tight ends frequently in 2023. As they move into a post-Stefon Diggs era, trading Knox might make sense. This would allow them to feature rookie Keon Coleman and veteran Curtis Samuel while planning for the next offseason.
Knox is a valuable player, and if the Bills can secure a mid-round pick for him, it would be beneficial for both sides. Buffalo could focus more on Kincaid, while Knox would find himself in an excellent situation as the Bucs' primary tight end.
Looking Ahead
As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers gear up for the 2024 NFL season, strategic trades are crucial to rounding out their roster and addressing key areas of need. Acquiring Preston Smith, James Bradberry, and Dawson Knox would provide immediate upgrades on both sides of the ball. They would enhance the Buccaneers' pass rush, secondary, and offensive firepower. These players bring not only their individual talents but also valuable experience and leadership that can elevate the entire team. With these additions, the Buccaneers would be well-positioned to make a serious run at the Super Bowl and reclaim their status as one of the NFL's elite teams.
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