The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are coming off yet another disappointing 2017 campaign that saw them miss the playoffs for the 10th straight season. It has once again put the franchise in a position to recalibrate the roster over the offseason to finally push the team in the right direction next season.

The front office has already committed to a new contract extension for five years worth $85 million with star wide receiver Mike Evans. According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, the team committed to locking up another key asset on the offensive side of the ball with a six-year, $41 million extension with tight end Cameron Brate.

The 26-year-old has emerged as a dependable target in the passing game over the last couple of seasons. In 2017, he recorded 48 catches on 77 targets for 591 receiving yards and six touchdowns. He finished fourth on the team in receptions and receiving yards while tying for first in touchdown catches. In the last two years, he has recorded at least 45 catches, 590 receiving yards, and six touchdowns.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
GM Jason Licht in the middle, Jackson Powers-Johnson, Marshawn Kneeland, Malik Washington around him, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers wallpaper in the background

Enzo Flojo ·

Zach Frazier (West Virginia), Christian Haynes (UConn), Spencer Rattler (South Carolina) in action around a Buccaneers logo and a 2024 NFL Draft background.

David Rooney ·

Randy Gregory as a silhouette. Todd Bowles

Ryan Bologna ·

This deal is a huge pay raise for Brate, who was in line to become a restricted free agent after completing a one-year, $690,000 contract. The decision to keep him aboard on a long-term extension solidifies Brate as a crucial piece to the puzzle in the passing game despite the presence of second-year tight end O.J. Howard, who was expected to step into a prominent role in his rookie campaign. Although Howard was tied for the team-lead with six touchdown receptions, his role was limited, as he just 26 catches on 39 targets in 14 games played.

What should be noted is that the Buccaneers also possess two Pro Bowl wide receivers in Evans and DeSean Jackson, who both draw a significant portion of the targets thrown their way. Nonetheless, Brate figures to be a prominent piece of the puzzle over the next several years.