Buccaneers Sign Former 2-Time Super Bowl Winning Safety
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have had a challenging season, currently ranking among the worst defenses against the pass. Opposing quarterbacks have been able to exploit the Tampa defense, consistently achieving high passing yardage and touchdowns. Head Coach Todd Bowles has struggled to implement effective adjustments, and the young secondary has found it difficult to gain stability.
Now on their bye week, Tampa saw an opportunity to strengthen their secondary by adding a veteran player familiar with Bowles’ defensive system. Even a single additional playmaker could provide a much-needed boost as the Buccaneers prepare for their playoff push.
Buccaneers Sign Familiar Face
Earlier this week, the team claimed a safety off waivers, bringing back a player who was originally drafted by them. This new addition had brief stints with the Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans before returning to the Buccaneers. He was a pivotal part of the team during their Super Bowl victory in 2021 and now reunites with fellow safeties who were also part of that championship squad. It’s starting to feel like a reunion in the secondary, especially since another returning safety rejoined after a period with the New York Jets.
While it remains uncertain how prominently he will feature in the Buccaneers’ defense initially, his pre-existing knowledge of Bowles’ system should facilitate a swift integration into action. His veteran presence will be valuable for a secondary in need of experience.
Super Bowl Champion
The player in question, a two-time Super Bowl champion, won one title with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2021 and another with the Kansas City Chiefs, the very team he defeated in that Super Bowl. He proved to be an asset in the Chiefs’ secondary, recognized for his exceptional ability to create turnovers. Over his career, he has tallied eight interceptions, showcasing his effectiveness as a safety in pass coverage.
To accommodate his return, the Buccaneers waived cornerback Keenan Isaac. During his previous tenure with Tampa, he recorded 184 tackles and seven interceptions, three of which he returned for touchdowns. Additionally, he contributed with 21 pass breakups, one forced fumble, three recovered fumbles, and two sacks.
Coaches Todd Bowles and GM Jason Licht are hopeful that this addition will invigorate the defense as the season’s final games approach. Cornerback Jamel Dean is expected to return from injury, and rookie Tykee Smith will soon rejoin the roster as well. With one of the easiest schedules ahead, the Buccaneers are in a position to finish strong and could pose a formidable challenge in the playoffs. The player they signed is Mike Edwards.
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