With The First Pick
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Franchise Building Blocks: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

By Jon Dove

Oct 30, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) throws a pass in the first half against the Oakland Raiders at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) throws a pass in the first half against the Oakland Raiders at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made a late run a the playoffs this past year and are looking to add enough to the roster to reach that goal.

Jameis Winston’s development has been quick and highly successful. He’s living up to expectations and could be one of the top-5 quarterbacks in the NFL within the next few seasons. His combination of leadership, arm talent and feel for the game is rare.

It helps that Winston has a receiver like Mike Evans on the roster. Evans is an elite playmaker who consistently wins in contested situations. He put up huge numbers this year despite dealing with constant double teams.

Cameron Brate had a really nice season and is someone who made a lot of plays for Winston. He should be considered the team’s long-term answer at the position.

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The Buccaneers offensive line is solid but still needs some work. Donovan Smith is a capable left tackle, but would be better suited on the right side. Ali Marpet is a talented and highly effective young guard. The rest of the unit consists of good football players but lacks high-end talent.

Tampa Bay’s biggest offensive question mark comes at the running back position where it’s possible they move on from the recently suspended Doug Martin. The rest of the group doesn’t inspire much optimism.

Charles Sims is a solid running back but is better suited as a 3rd-down back. If Tampa Bay moves on from Martin they  need to address the position either in the draft or free agency.

Tampa Bay’s defense is led by Gerald McCoy who is one of the more disruptive defenders in the league. He forces the opposing offensive coordinator to game plan around his penetration. Noah Spence had a strong rookie season and is another building block along the defensive line.

The linebacker crops features the explosive Lavonte David and Kwon Alexander. These two cover a top of ground and make plays from sideline to sideline. Their ability to hold up in coverage gives them added value.

Tampa Bay started to rebuild their secondary when they drafted Vernon Hargreaves III this past year. He showed the potential to be an elite defender early in his rookie season.

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