Earlier this week, Bucs Report’s J.T. Olson explored a potential trade that would send Buccaneers’ Defensive Back Zyon McCollum to the Detroit Lions. In his article, Olson wrote, “The move would have to come with a corresponding move to sign another veteran corner such as Rasul Douglas.”
That idea makes plenty of sense if McCollum is dealt. However, it might make even more sense if he isn’t.
The Buccaneers Are Betting On Youth
As J.T. pointed out, Tampa Bay’s secondary is getting much younger. Jacob Parrish is expected to move outside, Benjamin Morrison enters his second season, and rookie Keionte Scott is projected to handle nickel duties.
That’s an exciting group with plenty of upside.
It’s also a group with very little NFL experience.
Championship contenders rarely rely entirely on young defensive backs. Injuries happen. Development isn’t always linear. Having another proven veteran available could prevent one injury from becoming a major problem.
Rasul Douglas Brings More Than Production
Rasul Douglas isn’t just another body.
He has started games throughout his career. He’s played in multiple defensive systems. He has experience in big moments and understands what offenses are trying to accomplish.
Those are valuable traits for a young secondary.
His presence would also create healthy competition during training camp. No starting job would be handed to anyone. Every defensive back would have to earn it.
That’s exactly the type of environment Todd Bowles prefers.
Depth Wins In December
The Buccaneers know better than most how quickly injuries can change a season.
Cornerback is one of the hardest positions to play in today’s NFL. Teams regularly use three and four receivers. That means quality depth isn’t a luxury anymore.
It’s a necessity.
Signing Douglas wouldn’t mean giving up on McCollum. It wouldn’t mean the team lacks confidence in Morrison or Parrish either.
It simply gives Tampa Bay another capable player who can step into the lineup whenever needed.
A Low-Risk Move With High Upside
Veteran free-agent signings this time of year usually don’t require massive contracts.
If Douglas performs well, the Buccaneers gain another reliable starter or rotational piece.
If the younger corners prove ready sooner than expected, Douglas still provides experienced insurance while mentoring the next generation.
That’s a win either way.
The Verdict
J.T. made a compelling case that Rasul Douglas should become an option if the Buccaneers decide to move Zyon McCollum.
The stronger argument may be that Tampa Bay shouldn’t make the trade at all.
Adding Douglas now would strengthen the secondary, improve the team’s depth, and give one of the NFL’s youngest cornerback groups a veteran presence.
Whether McCollum stays or goes, that’s a move worth making.
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