The off-season is a wonderful time for each NFL team to brainstorm and map out what their team needs for the upcoming season. They plan for players leaving, potential free agent acquisitions, and the NFL Draft. This process makes every team feel as if they have a chance at competing for the ever elusive Super Bowl.
Unfortunately, for most teams, the chance of going to the Super Bowl is just a dream. Tampa Bay fans have watched the past couple seasons be dismal. Everyone was excited about the progression of Jameis Winston and the return of Doug Martin. We seemed to be the team everyone wanted to play for, Chris Baker and DeSean Jackson. The NFL Draft even seemed to favor our way with O.J. Howard and Chris Godwin, but once again our beloved Buccaneers broke our hearts.
Jameis Winston had a good year but continued to turn the ball over at crucial times. The kicking game cost the Buccaneers more games this past season. Doug Martin was a shell of the running back he used to be for Tampa. Baker was a non-factor (when he played). The offense was supposed to be high powered and light up the scoreboard, but instead of that, we got disappointment.
The Buccaneers brought back Head Coach Dirk Koetter, OC Todd Monken, and DC Mike Smith for another year. Although most fans didn’t agree with the move, I believe this team can be what we all expected. The offense needs to be freed up more and let our playmakers do what they are paid to do. The defense has got to be better. The free agent pool and the draft will hopefully help sure up the secondary and defensive line.
Stay positive Buccaneers fans… we are on the cusp of being great again. Also, do not forget that we play in the toughest division in football.
Edited By: Morgan Adele
