TAMPA, Florida — The pressure is on for Todd Bowles as the deadline for roster cuts approaches. With rosters due by August 27, the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has just one week to trim the roster from 90 players down to 53.
Making these cut-down decisions is complex. Players who are released can be claimed by other teams, so Bowles must weigh the risk of losing talented individuals permanently.
Bowles noted that determining which outside linebackers, safeties, and cornerbacks to keep will be particularly challenging, especially since many of them possess versatile skills. He emphasized that the depth at defensive line will also complicate decisions.
In 2023, the Buccaneers retained six outside linebackers, with Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, Anthony Nelson, Yaya Diaby, and Markees Watts returning. Second-round pick Chris Braswell is almost guaranteed a spot, while Jose Ramirez made a strong case for himself with a standout performance against the Jaguars.
Last year, the team kept ten defensive backs, including four safeties and six cornerbacks, and a similar setup is expected this season. The current starting lineup features Antoine Winfield Jr., Jordan Whitehead, Jamel Dean, Zyon McCollum, and Christian Izien, leaving room for five more defensive backs.
The wide receiver position has drawn significant attention during training camp. Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Trey Palmer, and rookie Jalen McMillan are solidifying their spots, but the final two roster spots are still up for grabs among a talented group of young receivers.
Bowles appears to have a general idea of his roster, mentioning that tough decisions will also revolve around offensive line depth, the number of running backs and tight ends, and the sixth receiver position.
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