Trio Of Buccaneers Provide Building Blocks for Future Success

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers weren’t void of talent when quarterback Tom Brady arrived, but his presence certainly took things to a new level and earned the franchise its second Lombardi Trophy as a result.
Now, after three seasons, the Buccaneers find themselves in familiar territory searching for a new franchise quarterback after Brady retired this offseason - maybe.
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Fortunately, as it was before 2020, Tampa Bay has talent on the roster still. And if they build right, that talent could be the foundation that future winning seasons are built upon.
Evaluating every team’s players to build around Pro Football Focus’ Brad Spielberger identified offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs, defensive lineman Vita Vea, and receiver Chris Godwin as the main three Bucs.
“What made the Tom Brady experience in Tampa go so well was the consistent infusion of top young talent, in addition to the many good players already in the fold,” says Spielberger. “So, fortunately for the Buccaneers, they have players to build around.”
Although, there were several other options to choose from as well.
“It was tough to not include the three very talented secondary players in Carlton Davis, Jamel Dean, and Antoine Winfield Jr. on this list,” Spielberger continued. “But all three deserve a mention here.”
While two offensive players made the top three on PFF’s list, the presence of three defensive backs shows the Buccaneers’ reputation as a defensive franchise is alive and well.
READ MORE: Antoine Winfield Jr. Believes Tom Brady Could Return To Buccaneers
Noticeably absent from consideration is linebacker Devin White who drew widespread criticism last season, spent the offseason posting cryptic social media messages while requesting a trade, and declined to participate in the early part of season preparation this year.
With his future on the team in question, it’s hard to see White as a building block for winning down the road.
A problem Tampa Bay doesn’t have with these six players.
Find David Harrison on Twitter @DHarrison82
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David Harrison has been in sports media since 2015 using written, audio, and video media to cover athletes, coaches, and games. In addition to covering the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for BucsGameday and Locked On Bucs he also covers the Washington Commanders for Commander Country and Locked On Commanders and the Washington Wizards for Inside the Wizards. David also covers the NFL as a whole as one of the Friday hosts for Locked On NFL. He is a graduate of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and previously spent 20 years as an active member of the United States Army. Contact David via email at david.w.harrison82@gmail.com or on Twitter @DHarrison82.
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