Bucs Defense: Strengths And Weaknesses

·1 hr 13 min·5 clips

Adam Slavon argues the Bucs' biggest defensive strength is a safety duo that could be top-five in the NFL.

The episode is a structured analysis of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defensive roster. Host Matt Matera is joined by analyst Adam Slavon. They begin by acknowledging the defense is harder to evaluate than the offense due to pending draft decisions. The first strength identified is the safety duo of Tykee Smith and Antoine Winfield Jr., with discussion on Winfield's need to prove his franchise-player status. The defensive line is cited as another strength, contingent on the health of Calijah Kancey and Vita Vea. A significant portion debates weaknesses, starting with cornerback, where Zion McCollum's regression and Benjamin St-Juste's reliability are questioned. The inside linebacker room is analyzed as a major concern following Lavonte David's retirement, with only Alex Anzalone as a reliable piece. The edge rusher group is seen as needing more behind YaYa Diaby. Draft strategy is a recurring theme, with consideration of taking a cornerback like Deonte Banks in the first round, trading down from pick 15, and the merits of doubling up on inside linebackers. Specific prospects discussed include inside linebackers C.J. Allen and Jacob Rodriguez, hybrid defender Kyle Lewis, and edge rushers Princely Umanmielen and R Mason Thomas. Listener questions via super chats are integrated, challenging the hosts' optimism about the defense's talent and Todd Bowles' scheme. The episode concludes with a summary of strengths (safety, defensive line) and primary needs (inside linebacker, edge rusher, cornerback) heading into the draft.

As heard by us

A focused Bucs draft review on why inside linebacker may shape the team's defensive future.

This PlayNext review centers the Bucs' defensive outlook on inside linebacker, treating the position less as a minor depth issue than as a draft priority.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want to know whether Tampa Bay's next defensive anchor comes from inside linebacker.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Pewter Report Podcast