Check out all of our 2009 NFL team previews.
Offseason Additions: Kellen Winslow Jr. (TE); Angelo Crowell (LB); Derrick Ward (RB); Byron Leftwich (QB); Mike Nugent (K).
Offseason Losses: Jovan Haye (DT); Derrick Brooks (LB); Jeff Garcia (QB); Phillip Buchanon (CB); Kevin Carter (DE); Joey Galloway (WR); Cato June (LB); Warrick Dunn (RB); Ike Hilliard (WR).
Player to Watch: Kellen Winslow Jr., TE.
The Bucs didn’t trade their second round pick in April’s draft to have Winslow block. As long as he stays healthy, the new coaching regime expects Winslow to play a big role in the Bucs’ passing game. Winslow will not only line up at tight end, but also in the slot in efforts to create mismatches on slower linebackers. Considering he’s Tampa’s second best receiving option after Antonio Bryant, Winslow should see plenty of targets this season from new quarterback Byron Leftwich.
Team Strength: The Bucs have one of the most underrated offensive lines in the NFL. Earnest Graham and Derrick Ward should see plenty of running lanes thanks to Tampa’s zone-blocking scheme and a quintet of athletic linemen. Of the five starters, right guard Davin Joseph is the most talented and excels in pass protection. Right tackle Jeremy Trueblood doesn’t have the quickest feet, but he more than makes up for his shortcomings with a nasty demeanor that aids him in one-on-one matchups. Donald Penn (an agile, technically sound tackle) and Aarron Sears are on the left side, although former third round pick Jeremy Zuttah could unseat Sears for the starting left guard position at some point. Jeff Faine gives the group a smart, instinctive center.
