Buccaneers make a huge jump in ESPN's post-free agency power rankings
The Buccaneers' hope and expectations for the 2022 season surged once Tom Brady announced his return to the NFL and understandably, so did Tampa Bay's place in ESPN's power rankings. The Bucs initially sat at No. 14 when ESPN rolled out its way-too-early power rankings a few weeks ago, but they now sit at No. […]
The Buccaneers' hope and expectations for the 2022 season surged once Tom Brady announced his return to the NFL and understandably, so did Tampa Bay's place in ESPN's power rankings.
The Bucs initially sat at No. 14 when ESPN rolled out its way-too-early power rankings a few weeks ago, but they now sit at No. 4. Brady's return plus the returns of Chris Godwin, Ryan Jensen, and Carlton Davis III key the surge. The acquisitions of Russell Gage and Shaq Mason are catalysts behind the surge, as well.
But, there are still questions on the roster, especially at defensive end. Bucs beat reporter Jenna Laine recognized that and wrote the following about what the Buccaneers' next goal should be:
A goal for the Bucs this offseason was to get a quicker, more explosive interior pass rush. Granted, they extended Vita Vea at the end of the season, but whom will he be paired up with as Ndamukong Suh remains unsigned? They need to choose whether to bring him back, sign another free agent or reload with a high draft pick.
Ndamukong Suh helps, but he doesn't solve the Buccaneers' defensive line
Bruce Arians specifically mentioned the Bucs need to amp up the interior pass rush at the NFL Combine. Suh helps the interior pass rush, but he doesn't solve it. Even if he finished with 6.0 sacks in back-to-back seasons.
The draft figures to give the Buccaneers their best shot at fixing their four-man rush. Interior pass rushers don't usually make a huge impact in their first year, but that's OK if the Bucs re-sign Suh. Whomever they draft will get a year to learn behind him and Vita Vea and will factor into the rotation, at least. And if they can be effective in the rotation, it's a big win for the Buccaneers.
But if the Buccaneers don't bring Suh back then they need to make sure they take an interior rusher in the early rounds of the draft (preferably Round 1) or try to at least bring in a veteran through free agency.
You can check out ESPN's full power rankings, here.
Featured image via Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
