Outside of Zyon McCollum, Tampa Bay is relying on several young defensive backs to play meaningful snaps this season. While rookies and second-year players have flashed throughout camp, adding another proven veteran before Week 1 could still be a wise move. One player who stands out as a potential fit is former All-Pro cornerback Tre’Davious White.
White is no longer the player who was once considered one of the NFL’s premier shutdown corners, but that doesn’t mean he can’t still provide value. After battling multiple major injuries over the last several seasons, including a torn ACL and Achilles injury, White has struggled to recapture the elite form that made him a two-time Pro Bowler. Those setbacks have understandably impacted both his availability and consistency. But that’s exactly why he could be an affordable option this late in the offseason.
Todd Bowles has never been afraid to lean on experienced defensive backs, particularly those who have proven they can thrive in man coverage. While White may have lost a step athletically, his instincts, football IQ, and understanding of route concepts remain strengths. Veteran corners often make up for diminished speed with anticipation, positioning, and technique, and White has years of experience doing just that.
The Buccaneers also wouldn’t need him to be the player he was in Buffalo.
Instead, he could serve as an experienced rotational corner, provide quality depth in case injuries strike, and mentor a young secondary that features several players still learning the real speed of the NFL game. There’s little downside to bringing in a player with White’s résumé on the right contract. If he returns to even a fraction of his previous Pro Bowl level, Tampa Bay could have one of the better value signings of the late offseason. If not, the financial commitment would likely be minimal.
White could help bridge the gap that is starters with experience and then the drop off to two sophomores still trying to find their footing in a complex defense, especially with Benjamin Morrison still struggling with injuries. Having the option to ease into younger corners instead of trial by fire allows for flexibility, one of Todd Bowles’ biggest strengths. If Tampa Bay wants to fully resolve its woes of last season, White could be the final depth piece.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Could Tre’Davious White be a smart veteran addition for the Bucs?
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
