The Tampa Bay Buccaneers boast a strong roster, filled with depth and talent across various positions, aiming for a playoff berth this season. However, a significant concern looms over their linebacker core, which struggled in the previous season. Though the team has bolstered this position by acquiring veterans and a promising draft pick, the situation remains precarious due to the lack of capable backups for pass coverage. If starter Alex Anzalone were to sustain an injury, the Bucs would face serious vulnerabilities. This need for depth at linebacker is critical as training camp approaches.

By the Numbers
  • Last season, the Buccaneers' linebacker group ranked among the league's weakest, with Lavonte David and SirVocea Dennis underperforming.
  • Christian Rozeboom, Alex Anzalone, and second-round draft pick Josiah Trotter were brought in to upgrade the linebacker position.
State of Play
  • Alex Anzalone is expected to be a key player, but his unique skill set in pass coverage poses a risk if he gets injured.
  • The Bucs currently lack depth in pass coverage beyond Anzalone, with other linebackers primarily being run stoppers.
What's Next

The Buccaneers must prioritize acquiring a backup linebacker with pass coverage skills before training camp begins. This proactive measure would help mitigate potential risks to their defensive strategy. Time is of the essence for any new acquisitions, given the complexity of Todd Bowles' defense.

Bottom Line

The Bucs have a solid roster, but their season may hinge on the effectiveness of their linebacker coverage. Without proper depth, any injury to Alex Anzalone could expose critical weaknesses. Addressing this issue ahead of training camp could be vital for the team's success.