Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ 3 Biggest Needs Ahead of 2024 Season

Last season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers went all the way to the Divisional Round in what turned out to be a rather surprising postseason run. To a certain extent, one might even argue that the Bucs overachieved in 2023.

This is now a thing of the past, though, and Tampa Bay will want to build on their success with an even deeper run in the playoffs this term. They will only be able to achieve this lofty objective if they address the crucial needs they currently have on their roster.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Need of a New Cornerback

NFL analyst Matt Holder of Bleacher Report recently conjured up a list of the three most compelling items the Bucs need to tick off on their checklist ahead of the new season. The first one is adding a new cornerback:

“The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a good starting outside corner in Jamel Dean, but the defense could use some help at the spot opposite Dean. Zyon McCollum is currently projected to fill that role but the two-year pro lacks experience and had a tough season in 2023, posting a 47.3 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus,” Holder wrote.

Holder believes Tampa is capable of winning their division again in 2024, but it will be necessary to strengthen their secondary in order to do so.

Pay Chris Godwin

Chris Godwin played a critical role in the Buccaneers’ success last term, and the former Pro Bowl wide receiver expects to get rewarded with a contract extension. The front office is still holding out on an extension for the 28-year-old, but Holder believes it would be in their best interest to get a deal done sooner rather than later:

“Godwin has been productive during his tenure in Tampa Bay, racking up nearly 530 receptions for about 6,700 yards and 34 touchdowns over seven seasons. He’s about to enter a contract year and projects to be one of the next wideouts to earn a big contract, so the front office should act quickly before the price tag goes up,” Holder suggested.

Add Depth at the Guard Position

At this point, offseason recruit Ben Bredeson is Tampa’s main option at left guard. Holder points out that while the incoming fifth-year offensive linesman is a viable choice, the Bucs must add depth at this position via free agency:

“Ben Bredeson is projected to start at left guard for the Buccaneers this season but Bredeson is coming off a tough year with the New York Giants where he allowed five sacks and posted a run-blocking grade in the low 40s, per PFF. Tampa also lacks depth at the position with sixth-round pick Elijah Klein and Sua Opeta slated as the team’s backups,” Holder wrote.