Bucs Earn Solid “B” For Early Free Agency Wave

The Bucs’ “B” grade indicates there’s room to improve in the next wave of free agency — however big or small that wave is. Tampa Bay’s cap situation necessitates a “let’s find the best value possible” approach, and there are plenty of positional needs the team still has.

One of the biggest puzzles the Bucs will need to solve (whether through free agency, the draft or both) is their offensive line. Part of their cap-cutting spree included releasing left tackle Donovan Smith, a starter for the last eight seasons, and trading Shaq Mason, the starting right guard for last year’s squad.

Tampa Bay has plenty of internal options to fill out its openings at guard. Nick Leverett is back, as is Stinnie. There’s also 2022 second-round pick Luke Goedeke to consider, as well as 2021 third-rounder Robert a Hainsey, who spent last season filling in for an injured Ryan Jensen at center.

As far as the left tackle position goes, the Bucs are mulling over their options. They can explore moving All-Pro right tackle Tristan Wirfs to the left side and fill his spot with Goedeke (a right tackle in college), a free agent or a draft pick. The team could also keep Wirfs where he is and dip into free agency or the draft for a new left tackle.

Beyond the offensive line questions, the Bucs need depth on their defensive line and in the defensive backfield. The team re-signed Pat O’Connor and brought in Gaines, but they join only 2022 leading sacker Vita Vea and 2022 second-round pick Logan Hall up front. There’s still need for more, and that could mean the return of longtime Buc Will Gholston.

At safety, Tampa Bay only has Antoine Winfield Jr. and 2022 undrafted free agent Nolan Turner locked in for 2023. It’s a safe bet that a safety will be among the next wave of free agency additions for the Bucs. One or both of Logan Ryan and Keanu Neal could be in play there, but the Licht and Co. are sure to look at other options as well.

While wide receiver, pass rushing and cornerback depth could also be considered as needs, it may be more plausible for the Bucs to look toward next month’s draft. Regardless, the Bucs have more work to do in free agency — and throughout the rest of the offseason — to put themselves in position to compete in a weak NFC South in 2023. But a solid “B” grade isn’t a bad place to start.