NFL expert says Bucs are best fit for three-time Pro Bowler
While Rachaad White has most likely cemented himself as the Bucs' RB1 for this season, there is still some question with the rest of the running back room. The top free agent running back on the market is Ezekiel Elliott, and one ESPN expert thinks the Bucs would be a perfect fit. While Elliott may […]
While Rachaad White has most likely cemented himself as the Bucs' RB1 for this season, there is still some question with the rest of the running back room.
The top free agent running back on the market is Ezekiel Elliott, and one ESPN expert thinks the Bucs would be a perfect fit. While Elliott may not be the same player he was in his prime, he showed last season that he is still a very effective goal-line back. He turned out to be a very nice fit next to Tony Pollard and could thrive in the same role next to White. Here is what ESPN expert Matt Bowen had to say about the potential pairing:
Elliott is still one of the NFL's top goal-line and short-yardage runners, and he would complement Rachaad White's skill set in the Bucs' backfield. In 2022, Elliott had 12 touchdowns with nine scores on carries inside the 5-yard line.
Yes, the 27-year-old's speed has declined at this stage of his career, and he's not going to give a team much as a receiver. We can see that on the tape. But as a No. 2 in Tampa, Elliott would bring value to the offense in key game situations.
In addition to what Bowen had to say, Zeke would fit well with the Buccaneer's new run scheme. After an abysmal 2022 season running the ball, the Bucs will move to a zone-based run scheme this year. Zeke would be a natural fit, as he has thrived in this scheme throughout his career.
However, while the idea sounds good on paper, it may be unrealistic. The Buccaneers have virtually no cap space for 2023 and seem to be in more of a transitional year. Despite the short-term good fit, signing Zeke may not be the smartest long-term play for the franchise.
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