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ESPN Insider Offseason Priorities: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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It's a good thing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 draft because this is a team that is not short on major needs right now.

The biggest need of all is behind center, which is where we'll begin our look at the Bucs' top offseason priorities.

1. Find a franchise quarterback

Josh McCown has proven he's no better than a good backup QB in this league, and while I think it's too soon to give up completely on Mike Glennon as an NFL starter, the Bucs could clearly afford an upgrade at the quarterback position. If they are comfortable with either of the top two QB prospects in this year's draft, Oregon's Marcus Mariota and Florida State's Jameis Winston, they should strongly consider taking them with the No. 1 overall pick.

They need a face of the franchise, and taking one No. 1 overall would allow the team to build around him with his specific strengths and weaknesses in mind. Todd McShay detailed the Bucs' top options with the No. 1 pick on Monday, including Mariota, Winston and a potential trade back.

2. Rebuild the offensive line

Putting a rookie QB behind the Bucs' O-line, which might be the worst in the league, isn't a recipe for success next season. Demar Dotson is very underrated at right tackle, and Logan Mankins is effective at left guard, even if he does cost a fortune, but this team needs new starters at the other three positions next season so that it can use Anthony Collins as more of a sixth O-lineman.

If they go with a QB No. 1 overall, the top of the second or third round could be a good spot to take a center or guard who can be a building block for this team going forward.

3. Improve the pass rush

If the Bucs don't go with a QB at No. 1, they could opt for a pass-rusher such as Missouri's Shane Ray or Nebraska's Randy Gregory or an all-around stud at DE in USC's Leonard Williams. It's clear they need to do a better job of getting to the QB next season.

Gerald McCoy is an outstanding all-around player, but he needs more help around him up front. Michael Johnson got paid like a No. 1 edge rusher this offseason, but that isn't what he is. The options in free agency might be limited here.

4. Build up the secondary

Outside of CB Alterraun Verner, who was excellent but somewhat under the radar in his first season in Tampa Bay, the rest of the Bucs' secondary is sub-par. Safety might be an even bigger need than cornerback, as the team is overpaying Dashon Goldson. Because of the scheme they play, at least the Bucs won't have to spend huge money on true lockdown man-to-man corners, but still, there is a shortage of secondary help right now in the NFL, and quality cover men cost a premium.

Offseason fixes for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers - NFL - ESPN
By Matt Williamson
 
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