The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have spent the offseason adding depth to their defense, but one familiar name could still make sense. Former Buccaneers EDGE Cam Gill is back on the football radar after an impressive season in the UFL, and a reunion wouldn’t come with much financial risk.
Would it be enough to solve Tampa Bay’s pass-rush concerns? Probably not. Could it be a worthwhile move? There’s certainly an argument for it.
Familiarity Matters
One of Gill’s biggest advantages is that he already knows Todd Bowles’ defense.
After signing with Tampa Bay as an undrafted free agent in 2020, Gill spent parts of four seasons with the organization. During that time, he appeared in 50 games, contributed on special teams, and was part of the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl LV championship team. He also recorded half a sack of Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl.
That familiarity shouldn’t be overlooked. Learning Bowles’ defense isn’t easy, and Gill wouldn’t be starting from scratch if he returned.
He’s Earned Another NFL Opportunity
Gill has done everything possible to put himself back on the NFL’s radar.
After signing with the Louisville Kings, he turned in one of the UFL’s best defensive seasons. Gill led the league with 10 sacks, set a new UFL single-season sack record, and was named the league’s Defensive Player of the Year.
Success in the UFL doesn’t guarantee NFL production, but it does show Gill can still rush the passer at a high level.
Low Risk With High Upside
No one should expect Gill to arrive and become Tampa Bay’s starting EDGE rusher.
Instead, he would compete for a roster spot while providing depth, special teams value, and a player who already understands the coaching staff’s expectations.
Considering he would likely command an inexpensive contract, the risk would be minimal. If he doesn’t make the roster, the Buccaneers can move on. If he flashes during training camp, they could uncover another valuable rotational defender.
The Verdict
The Buccaneers shouldn’t view Cam Gill as the answer to their pass rush.
However, bringing back a player who knows the system, has contributed in Tampa Bay before, and is coming off a dominant UFL season seems like a logical move.
Not every free-agent signing has to make headlines. Sometimes, the smartest additions are inexpensive players with familiarity, experience, and something to prove.
Cam Gill checks all three boxes.
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