In the wake of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers securing their third consecutive NFC South title in 2023, the intensity of pressure on certain positions has somewhat diminished.
However, lingering issues within the offensive line and uncertainties surrounding the coaching staff still cast shadows over the team’s prospects.
One of the most scrutinized positions is that of center, currently occupied by Robert Hainsey.
As he approaches the final year of his rookie contract, Hainsey faces the challenge of proving his long-term value to the team.
Despite showing flashes of potential, his performance has been inconsistent, marked by conceding four sacks and 27 pressures in the previous season, statistics that placed him among the league’s least effective centers.
Furthermore, Hainsey’s contributions to the Buccaneers’ struggling rushing game have not gone unnoticed, with the team ranking poorly in run-block win-rate and averaging a paltry 88.8 rushing yards per game.
His high penalty count further adds to the concerns surrounding his tenure.
Another linchpin of the offensive line, right guard Cody Mauch, shares Hainsey’s spotlight of scrutiny.
Despite being in only his second season, Mauch has already drawn criticism for his subpar performance in both run-blocking and pass protection.
His dismal run-block grade, coupled with a tendency to allow pressures and sacks, raises doubts about his ability to support the team’s aspirations for continued success.
Amidst these positional concerns, the spotlight also falls on head coach Todd Bowles, tasked with maintaining the Buccaneers’ momentum in the absence of Tom Brady.
Despite commendations for his past achievements, including steering the team through Brady’s retirement, Bowles faces heightened expectations as the Buccaneers embark on another season.
With a career record that lacks consistency and only two winning seasons to his name, Bowles must prove his capability to lead the team to further success and silence doubts regarding his leadership.
In summary, while the Buccaneers bask in the glow of recent achievements, the challenges faced by key personnel within the team underscore the imperative of addressing weaknesses and maintaining a trajectory of excellence in the upcoming season.
