The Tampa Bay Buccaneers addressed several roster needs this offseason, but one area still quietly stands out as incomplete heading into training camp: veteran experience in the secondary. While Tampa Bay added depth pieces and leaned heavily into youth, the defensive backfield still feels light on proven, established veterans, especially at safety, as the team prepares for a season with expectations of better play in the back end.
The most notable addition to the group has been Miles Killebrew, brought in under new special teams coordinator Danny Smith.
However, Killebrew is primarily expected to contribute on special teams rather than serve as a consistent secondary presence, leaving the safety rotation largely dependent on younger or developing players. That puts added pressure on Antoine Winfield Jr and Tykee Smith to anchor the unit once again, while players like J.J. Roberts, Rashad Wisdom, and Marcus Banks continue battling for roles and snaps within Todd Bowles’ complex defensive system.
Bowles’ scheme is known for its versatility and disguising heavy looks, but it also demands sharp communication and veteran-level awareness on the back end. Without a steady veteran presence beside Winfield and Smith, the Buccaneers are leaning heavily on young defensive backs to grow quickly in real time, and for a few injuries.
This isn’t unfamiliar territory for the Buccaneers. Jason Licht’s front office has often prioritized upside and athletic traits in the secondary, trusting Bowles and the coaching staff to develop talent within the system. But history has also shown that not bolstering the roster and depending TOO much on young talent is costly.
There are still veteran defensive backs available on the market, and even a modest signing could help stabilize the room.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: The Bucs secondary is still missing a veteran presence
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
