When the Buccaneers acquired speedy Wide Receiver DeSean Jackson via Free Agency last year, Bucs fans had high hopes for this shiny new weapon of Jameis Winston’s. It seemed that Jackson playing alongside stud Wideout Mike Evans was the final missing piece that this offense needed in order to finally succeed again and be a playoff contender. Unfortunately, things did not go as planned, and Winston Couldn’t seem to find a connection with Jackson, overthrowing him on multiple occasions or just not being on the same page as him. Jackson’s stats also reflect that it was not a very successful season for him, as he only had a total of 668 receiving yards compared to his 1005 yards the previous year. What stands out even more is the significant drop in average yards per reception, which decreased from 17.9 to 13.4, which is the lowest output of his whole career in that category. His longest reception of the season was “only” a 41-Yard-Catch, which is also his lowest output by far. Last year he had multiple catches for 80 Yards. Considering the fact that Tampa Bay acquired Jackson mainly for the purpose of finally having a dangerous deep threat, this significant drop-off is even more concerning and disappointing for the Buccaneers’ organization and their fans.
All that will hopefully change in 2018. According to DeSean Jackson, who was featured on “Skip and Shannon: Undisputed” last week, the two have been working on timing and chemistry together. Also, they are planning on going to Texas A&M to work with Jameis Winston college coach Jimbo Fisher. Winston emphasized at the end of the season how bonding with DeSean will be critical for the success of the Buccaneers in 2018. It looks like Winston’s work ethic is just what the team needs it to be and DeSean Jackson seems to have his mind on winning, as well. The two of them working together this early in the off-season is a great sign for Tampa Bay. With one year of experience of working together in the same system, things can only get better next season. If the two very talented players finally gel in 2018, look out, NFC South!
