Todd Bowles continues to demonstrate his exceptional ability to create pressure for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers despite the loss of star edge rusher Shaq Barrett. The Bucs' talented roster, particularly their front seven, has consistently ranked among the top ten in NFL sacks since Bowles took over in 2019. His strategies, including blitzing and front seven stunts, rely on versatile athletes who can disrupt opposing offenses effectively. This season is expected to see a continuation of Bowles' aggressive approach, combining blitzing with movements to confuse offensive lines.

By the Numbers
  • The Buccaneers have finished in the top 10 in sacks every year under Todd Bowles since 2019.
  • Yaya Diaby led the team with 7.5 sacks in 2023, while Vita Vea had 6.5 sacks in the previous year.
Yes, But

While Bowles' reputation as a defensive innovator is well-established, concerns linger over the team’s ability to match past performance levels without Barrett’s elite talent.

State of Play
  • The Buccaneers will likely implement a high blitz percentage and maintain aggressive stunts along the front seven.
  • Newly drafted athletes like Yaya Diaby and Calijah Kancey are expected to complement Bowles' defensive schemes.
What's Next

As the season unfolds, the effectiveness of Bowles’ strategies will be tested, especially in how well the young roster adapts to various defensive schemes.

Bottom Line

Todd Bowles’ track record and innovative strategies will continue to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, ensuring the Buccaneers remain competitive defensively, regardless of individual player departures.