The Tampa Bay Buccaneers wrapped up their 2024 season with a 10-7 record, clinching the NFC South title before falling short in the postseason. Despite having many pieces in place to compete in the NFC, their biggest weakness was on defense, where they ranked 16th in the league, allowing 22.6 points per game.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, improving the defense should be the team’s top priority this offseason. “The Buccaneers are in the mix in the NFC, which is why investing in a few defensive players would be prudent,” Fowler wrote. He pointed out that Tampa Bay’s 2020 Super Bowl victory under Tom Brady was fueled by a dominant pass rush and strong man-to-man coverage from their cornerbacks. Fowler suggests that adding talent at these positions through free agency or the draft could give head coach Todd Bowles more options in crucial matchups.
A key area of need is another pass rusher to support Yaya Diaby and bolster the defensive front. Additionally, the Bucs face decisions on several key free agents, including wide receiver Chris Godwin who seems likely to remain with the team and guard Ben Bredeson, who exceeded expectations last season. Releasing safety Jordan Whitehead could free up $4.5 million in cap space to help fund other moves.
Fowler also noted how the Philadelphia Eagles have demonstrated the value of a dominant defensive line, even against elite quarterbacks in the Super Bowl. That formula was central to the Buccaneers’ 2020 championship run, and with a defensive-minded coach in Todd Bowles, reinforcing the defense could be the key to another deep playoff push.
While adding another weapon for quarterback Baker Mayfield is on the radar, defense seems to be the primary focus for Tampa Bay this offseason as they aim to re-establish themselves as serious contenders in the NFC.
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