NFL Training Camps: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rookie Report
By Jon Dove
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were able to land several impact rookies who they hope can help them make a playoff appearance.
O.J. Howard was the Tampa Bay Buccaneers most significant addition through the 2017 NFL Draft. He’s an elite tight end prospect who impacts the game as both a pass catcher and blocker. Howard should quickly become one of the better tight ends in the league.
The Buccaneers have a wide array of offensive weapons and Howard only adds to that mix. They can put out very diverse packages including two tight end sets with Howard and breakout star Cameron Brate.
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Another formation could include the team’s 3rd round pick Chris Godwin. Landing Godwin in the 3rd round could end up being a major steal. He’s a big-bodied receiver who attacks the ball at its highest point.
A three receiver set with Godwin, Mike Evans and DeSean Jackson has a chance to be very dangerous. It becomes an even bigger nightmare for opposing defenses when you add Howard and Brate into the mix.
Tampa Bay added a few nice pieces on the defensive side of the ball. They are hoping to get some early contributions from safety Justin Evans. The idea is that his athleticism and aggressiveness will help him make a ton of plays on the football.
Linebacker Kendell Beckwith is getting a chance to work with the first team thanks to an injury suffered by Kwon Alexander. Beckwith is a big-hitter who loves to make plays at or behind the line of scrimmage.
He brings a more physical presence to the Buccaneers defense when on the field.
Overall, Tampa Bay should get the biggest rookie impact on the offensive side of the ball. Howard and Godwin have a chance to make some big plays as the season progresses. However, don’t count out Beckwith grabbing a long-term starting job.