Who will emerge as the NFL Next Standout Player in Tampa Bay?

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As the NFL Franchise Tampa Bay Buccaneers navigate a transitional phase following Tom Brady’s retirement, it’s important to recognize the steady influx of talent the Bucs have added to their roster in recent years. It’s only a matter of time before one of these young players bursts onto the scene and establishes themselves as a prominent figure.

During the early stages of their careers, individuals like LB Lavonte David, WR Mike Evans, and OT Tristan Wirfs left an indelible mark on the NFL, showcasing their skills and garnering recognition as some of the league’s best. As we look ahead to 2023, the Buccaneers have a couple of players poised for breakout performances that demand our attention, potentially influencing the landscape of NFL Lines.

Calijah Kancey – DT

Is it appropriate to label a first-round draft pick as a breakout player? Absolutely, especially if that player posts extraordinary numbers, much like defensive tackle Calijah Kancey is capable of doing.

Kancey emerged as one of college football’s most formidable pass rushers last year, irrespective of position, boasting an impressive 22.7% win rate on pass rush reps, as reported by Pro Football Focus. His extensive repertoire of pass rush moves, combined with his exceptional athleticism, has the potential to make him a menace to quarterbacks—a caliber of threat not witnessed in Tampa since Warren Sapp adorned the red and pewter.

However, Kancey encounters a significant question concerning his fit within Todd Bowles’ defensive scheme. Bowles has traditionally favored size in the trenches over agility, often employing a two-gap strategy to create opportunities for his linebackers. If Bowles opts to unleash Kancey’s full potential by allowing him to relentlessly attack quarterbacks, rather than focusing on controlling the line of scrimmage, the rookie tackle could make a scorching start in Tampa.

Rachaad White – RB

In 2022, RB Rachaad White demonstrated several promising qualities. Now, as we approach 2023, he assumes command of the backfield, possessing the freedom to display his talents.

White embodies a versatile running back who can contribute both on the ground and in the passing game. His tough running style, evident in the clash against the Seahawks last year, coupled with his ability to make decisive cuts and utilize his vision, bolsters his effectiveness. While refinement is still necessary, this second year could mark a turning point for White, enabling him to become a legitimate threat for the Bucs, as the team anticipates.

The primary factor that might hinder White’s progress lies within the offensive line. Should the line fail to perform adequately, White’s production would inevitably suffer. Conversely, if the offensive line remains solid, it would come as no surprise if the former Sun Devil thrives throughout 2023.

The 2023 Bucs Don’t Seem Too Exciting So Far

Tom Brady, the undisputed legend of the NFL, has officially hung up his cleats, marking the end of an era for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With his departure, the once-glowing prospects for the Buccaneers’ future have dimmed considerably. As they navigate the post-Brady era, the team finds itself entering a rebuilding phase, yet it still boasts a roster brimming with seasoned talent that could move NFL Odds in their favor.

The 2022 season proved to be a frustrating and disjointed campaign for the Buccaneers. Despite entering the year as prime Super Bowl contenders, they stumbled their way to an 8-9 record, barely sneaking into the playoffs only to suffer a swift defeat at the hands of the Dallas Cowboys in the Wild Card Round.

Now facing the challenge of not being in range to secure an early first-round quarterback in the draft, the Buccaneers have set the stage for a quarterback competition between Kyle Trask, a former second-round pick, and the newly acquired free agent, Baker Mayfield. While this showdown may not generate much excitement, Tampa Bay’s best-case scenario undoubtedly hinges on Trask emerging as the victor.

In an ideal world, Trask would prove himself as a capable starter who can effectively operate within an offense that still boasts the talents of Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Fortunately, not much has changed on the defensive side of the ball, with a formidable unit led by the likes of Vita Vea, Lavonte David, Shaquil Barrett, and a dependable secondary that should maintain at least league-average performance.

In this optimistic scenario, the Buccaneers could muster eight victories, a tally that proved sufficient to secure the division crown in the previous season. However, it would hardly be catastrophic if Trask and the rest of Tampa Bay’s roster stumbled in 2023. In fact, a bottom-of-the-barrel finish could potentially position the team to acquire a promising quarterback in what is projected to be an epochal 2024 draft class, teeming with exceptional talent at the position.