Adam Slivon’s Bucs Battle Plan For 2023
ILB Lavonte David – 2 years, $14 million
David chooses to stick around in Tampa Bay, electing to be a career Buc over signing for more money elsewhere. This new pact allows the team more time to find his heir apparent in the middle of the defense. He remains one of the key captains of a ship changing much of its cast.
CB Sean Murphy-Bunting – 1 year, $2.5 million
SMB returns to the Bucs, giving the secondary an important insurance policy as the second cornerback. He has had his ups and downs, but for $2,500,000, this deal provides a solid return on investment. It also allows for Murphy-Bunting to rebound and put together a solid campaign before re-entering the market next year.
DL Will Gholston – 1 year, $1.5 million
Like David, Gholston re-signs and decides to play another year. Already a 10-year vet, Gholston could retire with a pension from the league. Instead, he takes a pay cut to mentor the young defensive linemen while contributing as a rotational player.
S Logan Ryan – 1 year, $1.25 million
Ryan is the epitome of a Todd Bowles defensive back. A well-spoken veteran with a high football IQ, Ryan still has something in the tank. Limited to only six starts last season, he still recorded an interception and forced fumble. His impact will be felt on and off the field as a key communicator on the back end.
OLB Carl Nassib – 1 year, $1.25 million
Nassib was brought in during the preseason but quickly settled in back in Tampa Bay. He recorded 3.5 sacks as a rotational pass rusher. Per his teammates, he also brings the “juice.”
DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches – 1 year, $1.165 million
Another high-energy player, Nunez-Roches is a great locker-room presence and reserve defensive tackle. He was highly productive for his role last season, recording a career-high two sacks and 33 tackles.
DT Deadrin Senat – 1 year, $1,080,000 million
Senat performed well in limited action last year, which included his first NFL sack. He returns to provide additional line depth.
Restricted Free Agents Not Re-Signed
OLB Cam Gill – After missing the whole season, Gill is the odd man out for a roster that will be overhauled. Still only 25, he should find a role elsewhere, but it won’t be in Tampa.
Exclusive Rights Free Agents Re-Signed
OG Nick Leverett – 1 year, $940,000
Leverett put together a solid season at the Bucs’ left guard after rookie Luke Goedeke was benched. It is a no-brainer to bring him back to compete for the starting spot against Robert Hainsey at this price point.
CB Dee Delaney – 1 year, $940,000
Delaney is a versatile defensive back with experience in the system. He is further depth at cornerback and safety and is worth keeping at the league minimum.
