Regardless of how the 2022 season ends for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, they’ll head into the offseason with some big question marks on both sides of the ball.
With a challenging salary cap situation, and some key players headed for free agency, the Bucs will need to hit on their early picks in the 2023 NFL draft if they want to fill those spots and remain a playoff contender next season.
As they prepare for Sunday’s regular-season finale against the Atlanta Falcons, as well as a home playoff game the following week, here’s an updated look at how all seven rounds of this year’s draft could shake out for Tampa Bay:
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Jamel Dean and Sean Murphy-Bunting are both headed for free agency, so the Bucs could use another starting-caliber corner to pair with Carlton Davis III. Ringo’s had a roller-coaster campaign in 2022, but his size, length, and skill set make him a perfect fit in Todd Bowles’ scheme.
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Tampa Bay’s lack of quality depth in the trenches has been a huge reason for their offensive struggles this season, so adding another versatile blocker early in the draft should be a priority. Mauch could play either guard or tackle, and Bucs general manager has a knack for landing stud offensive linemen from smaller programs.
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Lavonte David’s contract is up after this year, and even if he returns, he turns 33 in January. It’s time for the Bucs to start grooming a potential replacement to pair with Devin White, and Henley is one of the most underrated defenders in this year’s class.
(AP Photo/Matthew Putney)
Anthony Nelson and Carl Nassib are set to be free agents, while Shaq Barrett is 30 years old and coming off a torn Achilles. The Bucs need to reload their depth on the edge, and McDonald is a well-rounded pass rusher with 34 careers sacks to his credit.
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Russell Gage was given a hefty contract to be Tampa Bay’s all-important WR3, but he just hasn’t been able to stay healthy. The Bucs should use one of their extra picks to add some receiver depth, and Wicks has the skill set and big-play ability to excel in this vertical passing scheme.
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Mike Edwards is on the final year of his rookie contract, and Logan Ryan is only on a one-year deal, so…
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