Don’t Rule Out Koetter’s Love Of His RBs
April 29th, 2017
Content?
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED FEB. 12, 2017 – A lot of Bucs fans might not want to read this, but it has to be written.
Legions of fans are clamoring for a shiny new highly-drafted electric rookie running back to be added to the Tampa Bay stable.
There’s a good chance that won’t happen, in part because Dirk Koetter is very pleased with his current crew.
First, there is no bigger Charles Sims fan than Koetter. The head coach has made that clear on many occasions. Sims was dynamite in 2015, and then was a game-changer in two of the Bucs’ first three games of the season. His touchdown against the Falcons on opening day is still amazing no matter how many times you watch it.
Sims lost half the season with a knee injury but returned.
Don’t mistake this as a Joe endorsement. The point is Koetter adores and appreciates Sims, who is entering a contract year.
Remember Koetter’s handshake agreement with Jacquizz Rodgers right after the season ended? That was no joke. And Koetter loved Rodgers so much he made him the inspirational focal point of the locker room in midseason.
And then there’s undrafted 2016 rookie Peyton Barber. On more than one occasion, Koetter praised his positive runs and said the team needed to get him more touches.
Barber found a way to have more yards per carry than Doug Martin, even if you subtract Barber’s 44-yard touchdown run against San Francisco (and why the hell would you do that)?
There was a telling moment during the season on the Buccaneers Radio Network. General manager Jason Licht chatted with iconic play-by-play man Gene Deckerhoff about Barber. Deckerhoff praised Licht for finding this hidden gem of a back. Licht coyly and humbly responded saying that Barber wasn’t hidden at all because he ran for 1000+ yards in the SEC in 2015. (Barber had 238 carries for 1,017 yards and 12 touchdowns for Auburn.)
What Koetter thinks of Barber after thorough offseason evaluation is a big X-factor when it comes to the Bucs’ running back position.
The point here is there is a good chance the Bucs do nothing at running back other than keep the backs noted above and select one on the third day of the NFL Draft.
Joe’s simply preparing fans who are confident the Bucs will make a massive investment at the position.
February 12th, 2017 at 2:08 pm
When I hear Jason Licht sing that cast praises I’ll change my opinion. Until then. Just signed a FSU long snapper btw.
February 12th, 2017 at 2:09 pm
I’m telling y’all Jason Licht got Jimbo Fisher on speed dial.
February 12th, 2017 at 2:15 pm
I will say it again. If you take Jaquizz Rodgers’ production and project it over a 16 game stretch, he would’ve rushed for 1,101 yards. If Koetter and Licht feel that they can get that type of production out of him again then it wouldn’t surprise me at all if they stuck with him.
However, given his injury history and Charles Sims injury history, it would be a mistake to not draft a RB at some point in this draft.
February 12th, 2017 at 2:23 pm
Sounds to me as if we’re gonna be seeing Donnel Pumphrey or Tarik Cohen in Red & Pewter as 4th/5th rounders. Not gonna lie I would be pleased with either as Day 3 picks.
February 12th, 2017 at 2:33 pm
Let’s be realistic folks. Running Backs are mostly a dime a dozen, you usually only have one on the field at a time, and they accrue mileage at a much faster rate than other positions.
Let’s get a WR or TE in the first round and Make America Brate Again.
February 12th, 2017 at 2:44 pm
Some good backs that I’m glad to have
But no game changer
February 12th, 2017 at 2:44 pm
I think Koetter is supportive of his players, but I don’t think he’s unrealistic about their capabilities. I also think Jason Licht knows what’s going on. I don’t expect a RB in round 1, but round 2 or 3 I think is a strong chance, but it wouldn’t surprise me if they waited until the 4th or 5th round either.
February 12th, 2017 at 2:46 pm
Realistically, dalvin cook is the needle in the haystack. Not a dime a dozen.
February 12th, 2017 at 2:56 pm
After the many articles already written this offseason, I think the Joes need to prepare themselves on the bucs perhaps not getting a running back
February 12th, 2017 at 3:01 pm
Here is a list of the 1st round RBs picked in the last 15 years.
How many of them are Game Changers. Heck how many of them even panned out as Bell Cows?
1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (No. 7, 2007)
2. Steven Jackson, Rams (No. 24, 2004)
3. Chris Johnson, Titans (No. 24, 2008)
4. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (No. 27, 2006)
5. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers (No. 13, 2008)
6. Darren McFadden, Raiders (No. 4, 2008)
7. Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers (No. 23, 2008)
8. Larry Johnson, Chiefs (No. 27, 2003)
9. Willis McGahee, Bills (No. 23, 2003)
10. Ryan Mathews, Chargers (No. 12, 2010)
11. Reggie Bush, Saints (No. 2, 2006)
12. Marshawn Lynch, Bills (No. 12, 2007)
13. Ronnie Brown (No. 2, 2005)
14. Beanie Wells, Cardinals (No. 31, 2009)
15. Joseph Addai, Colts (No. 30, 2006)
16. Cedric Benson, Bears (No. 4, 2005)
17. Mark Ingram, Saints (No. 28, 2011)
18. Cadillac Williams, (No. 5, 2005)
19. Felix Jones, Cowboys (No. 22, 2008)
20. Jahvid Best, Lions (No. 30, 2010)
21. Kevin Jones, Lions (No. 30, 2004)
22. Laurence Maroney, Patriots (No. 21, 2006)
23. T.J. Duckett, Falcons (No. 18, 2002)
24. C.J. Spiller, Bills (No. 9, 2010)
25. William Green, Browns (No. 16, 2002)
26. Knowshon Moreno (No. 12, 2009)
27. Donald Brown, Colts (No. 27, 2009)
28. Chris Perry, Bengals (No. 26, 2004)
……………………………….
How many of these guys spent their career with less than three teams? All you guys bent on a 1st rd. RB are kinda Myopic.
February 12th, 2017 at 3:04 pm
Haha go back to the two old articles and tmaxipad is complaining in both of those 😂😂😂
February 12th, 2017 at 3:10 pm
Even if we don’t get a RB early in the draft (I still think we’d take one in the later rounds), I’d be ok with it as long as we strengthen our OL. Strong offensive lines make everyone look better. Blake – Just watched your two picks (Pumphrey and Cohen). They both look good but I’d say Pumphrey is a little better. A little bigger, (though not big by any means) and played against a little better competition.
February 12th, 2017 at 3:13 pm
I hope the Bucs consider bringing in Mike Gillislee for a work out. He looked good spelling for McCoy in Buffalo. He’s young without much tread.
February 12th, 2017 at 3:24 pm
How any coach could look at Charles Sims on film and see anything more than a 3rd specialist is beyond me. That guy tap dances more than the late great Gregory Hines.
February 12th, 2017 at 3:29 pm
I am totally with you Lunchbox. Zeke wouldn’t have nearly what he had behind the Bucs OL. RB is not as important to this team right now as some would like to think. Our RB play stunk last yr as a direct result of Mike Evans and then a huge cliff. A beefy OL and at least Two threats at WR opens a run game Immensely. I have seen OLs open holes even I could run through when the backfield has to worry about Legit WRs.
February 12th, 2017 at 3:29 pm
Howdy Bro! How are you today man?
February 12th, 2017 at 3:33 pm
@BKNY, I am a Gator so I will be looked at as a homer but I agree that Gillislee is worth a look see. I always saw flashes of brilliance from him but then low production. This said though Fla hasn’t had a QB since Tebow. He is not a Bell Cow though.
February 12th, 2017 at 3:39 pm
Gillislee was excellent when given the chance
February 12th, 2017 at 3:44 pm
Doug martin was a 1st rounder
February 12th, 2017 at 3:46 pm
SB what up man. Just coolin it. Got a vacay this week, trying to do some fishin.
February 12th, 2017 at 4:03 pm
Hey Joe, I know that you and I are not the biggest fans of the backwards PFF crowd. But I mean they ranked Mike Evans as the 12th best player in the League, so they can’t be all that bad 😀
But anyway, PFF liked the performance of Jazquizz Smith so much that they ranked him as tied for 10th with Devonta Freeman out of all running backs.
Guess it’s time for you to quit Dogging Chuck Sims LOL.
February 12th, 2017 at 4:07 pm
@Joe … “There’s a good chance that won’t happen, in part because Dirk Koetter is very pleased with his current crew.” I’m really surprised that no one has yet taken Joe to task for that statement. Joe’s trolling again, and on this one all it took was top-water bait, and everyone bit. Folks start talking hopefully drafting a RB in the later rnds. Horsepuckey … Bucs need a stallion, and they need him NOW.
Project Jaquizz over an entire season and you don’t get 1,100 yds … you get an injured Jaquizz. Same with Sims, and yes, even the same with Martin. Is everyone forgetting their injury history? Koetter may ‘love his RBs’ but I’m pretty sure what he doesn’t love is running the ball 453 times last season and only getting 1,616 yds out of it (yup, 3.6 average). Continually put undue pressure on Jameis to pass on 3rd down to try to move the chains. Tell me again how well that worked out?
Koetter the Head Coach (1) likes winning; and (2) likes balance between the run & pass games. We didn’t have balance last year (Bucs ran the ball only 44% of the time, primarily because our running game wasn’t all that successful). If we simply stand pat with the RBs (and OLine) that we’ve got, why should we expect different results? Since this draft is relatively deep in RBs, I’d be perfectly happy with drafting a workhorse in Rnds 2, 3 or 4. Later than that, probably don’t need to bother (unless someone like Mixon just drops way down & we draft him).
February 12th, 2017 at 4:29 pm
I do love Quizzy and I swear Peyton Barber is future star in this league.
February 12th, 2017 at 4:56 pm
Resigning Rodgers is a must and he is still young at 27 and has not been used as a feature back so there is still good life in him, they still have Sims to take the load off a little and they are always talking about developing players and that’s were Barber, Hansbrough come in so it wouldn’t surprise me if they brought Martin back at a very reduced salary and not count on him contributing and if he does great and draft a running back next year focusing on other needs this year.
Games are won in the trenches I would go D-line or O-line in the draft.
February 12th, 2017 at 5:05 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkmSvXLwL7Y&t=215s
Jahad Thomas is another guy we could get on day 3. This kid looks really good and is projected as a 5th/6th rounder.
February 12th, 2017 at 5:06 pm
He could be our James White. And he’s shifty as all hell.
February 12th, 2017 at 5:22 pm
@Defense Rules
“We didn’t have balance last year (Bucs ran the ball only 44% of the time, primarily because our running game wasn’t all that successful).”
I’m going to get real deep into math and I will be rounding numbers a lot
You can look at it as not having balance. That 44% turns into 28.3 carries per game which is also the 8th most in the league last year. So there was 24 other teams that were even more unbalanced than we were. Including 9 of the 12 playoff teams (Dallas was 1st with 30.8, New England was 4th with 29.5, Houston was 5th with 29.1)
The average amount of carries this season was 25.9. That number has been trending downwards. I didn’t go too far back but 2015 was 26.3 carries per game. 2014 was 26.6 carries per game. It doesn’t seem like a big drop off, and it isn’t. It shows that the league is transforming into a pass first league, which we all know by now. This is just some numbers to show it.
On average last season the percentage of offensive snaps per game was 59% pass to 41% run.
The point of me saying all this is to point out to people what I believe should be defined as a “workhorse” or “feature” back. Imo if a RB is going to be called that he has to be a weapon in the passing game as a receiver out of the backfield.
That reason alone is why I say no to guys like D’onta Foreman (13 catches in 3 season).
IMO, in today’s NFL if you are a RB that isn’t effective as a receiver, you will be splitting time with a RB who is. And if you are splitting time with someone, can’t be a “workhorse” or “feature” back.
February 12th, 2017 at 5:25 pm
Wow Joe……….My Entire post to Nos was just Deleted, not even waiting Moderation, because you still haven’t purged your auto mod filters of the word s-n-o-o-k? Love your site but c’mon. YOu banned that dude over 3 years ago.
I was asking what type of fish Nos was targeting.
February 12th, 2017 at 5:26 pm
Anyway Nos, if you want some tips hit me up on the phone.
February 12th, 2017 at 5:27 pm
I am out. Going to ride the sleds up Two Top Mountain and back by dark. Peace out. GO BUCS
February 12th, 2017 at 5:39 pm
There’s 2 Michigan Wolverines Studs, that will go in Round 1-2.DE Taco Charlton..DT Chris Wormley. I don’t know who will draft these two players, but they will get two good players on the D-Line who will be impact players from Day 1. And both of them also has a lot of upside.
February 12th, 2017 at 5:42 pm
If Koetter isn’t able to self evaluate his own roster with a critical eye then he’s more like Lovie than I thought and that’s a bad sign for Bucs fans
February 12th, 2017 at 6:29 pm
SB
I’m not sure you made the point you were attempting. The first five of your list were absolute studs who did make a difference! 7 of the top ten were “difference makers”….and there were some excellent backs scattered throughout the rest of the list. Some busts…some average…pretty much what I suspect you’d see at any position. Let’s look at all the DE’s drafted in the first round…the biggest studs will be there but like your RB list there will be mediocrity…Adrian Slowborn and also busts…Bowers…
And I’m not sure how we rate players like Cadillac who clearly would have been worth his pick if he hadn’t blown out his knee…don’t know if Gaines Adams is in that group as well…hard to know if he could have salvaged his career if he hadn’t died.
Again….from my perspective the draft is a crapshoot…the odds are simply the best in the first round…but no guarantees…just like betting a 2-1 or even money horse at the track…you get to the late 3rd round or beyond and you drop quickly to 50-50 and then worse. It’s like betting on that 20-1 shot at the track..if it comes home you’ve hit it big…
As for this story I’m not sure Koetter and Licht are not just putting out misinformation for the other GM’s. Why would they announce ANY need before the draft. The ENTIRE league knows we are desperate for another WR…after that it’s a guessing game…I think we need a real RB…I like Quizz in rotation with another strong back…Barber? Maybe? Martin should be gone! Unlike many here I like Sims…but he’s not a between the tackles runner…I’m not sure why the “dancing” label is viewed as such a pejorative…nobody griped when he “danced” his way through the Falcon’s defense!!! I do have a problem with his injuries but not his game when used properly. He’s the closest thing to a game breaker this team has right now.
Where is the speed?
February 12th, 2017 at 6:36 pm
You wanna know why I love Fameis??? He too G,both feet firmly planted on the ground. No “Hollywood”in him. I’m watching the news something I rarely do seeing is how most of it is garbage. But across the screen comes Fameis training here in Orlando at a Disney facility with a large group of young men that hope to be in the NFL day. That’s why I take offense to posters being critical without mentioning any postives. Because I know 9 times out of 10 he’s somewhere trying to get better.
February 12th, 2017 at 6:44 pm
Also what Defense said at 4:07(gose without saying my RB of choice differs from the one he stated at the end) and the last paragraphs of Pop at 5:22. Precisely why I want DC. SB I’m looking for some specks. My bad I was napping bro.
February 12th, 2017 at 6:48 pm
Oh Pete I love Sims in the open field, its between the tackle he seems somewhat timid imo.
February 12th, 2017 at 6:50 pm
I don’t know what others around the country call it but when. I was growing up playing kill league ball a term called “tipping” is what we said about guys somewhat hesitant to hit those holes.
February 12th, 2017 at 6:52 pm
That’s what I mean when I say he be dancing, in truth I’m saying he be tipping.
February 12th, 2017 at 6:57 pm
Marlon Mack in the 4th round. Running back issues solved.
February 12th, 2017 at 6:59 pm
I agree on Mack. He ran over UCF and pretty much every other team in 2016.
February 12th, 2017 at 7:00 pm
Agree NOSBOS…Sims is far from a power runner…again I do not want to see him between the tackles…in fact I really want to see him in the slot and all over the formation.
February 12th, 2017 at 7:01 pm
To hell with Michael Bennett.
Israel is an inspiration – not an apartheid state.
February 12th, 2017 at 7:17 pm
Joeypoppems … I enjoy the stats, although I know that many couldn’t care less. I tend to look more for trends though and yours showed a pretty interesting trend I think … NFL-wide it looks like 26 rushes/game is a fairly consistent average over the past several years. But as we’ve all seen, most teams have gotten farther & farther away from the run in favor of the pass. That’s understandable I think given the NFL rule changes that’ve occurred.
I’ve gotten the impression from Koetter’s past teams however that his idea of balance is closer to 50-50. When he had Maurice Jones-Drew in Jacksonville, the Jags rushed 512 times in 2010 (vs 469 pass) and 489 times in 2011 (vs 469 pass). In other words, they rushed over 50% of the time, and had about a break-even record. When he was with Atlanta in 2012, Koetter had Turner & Rodgers (plus Matty Ice of course). That year they went 13-3 by rushing 378 times (vs 422 pass) … only 47% running the ball. Ran it even less the next 2 years (42% in 2013 and 37% in 2014) and had losing records both years. Just sayin’ … looks like Dirk has better success when his offense can run the ball … with good results … closer to 50% of the time.
February 12th, 2017 at 7:34 pm
I like Marlon Mack in the 4th
February 12th, 2017 at 7:38 pm
1st off – HOPEFULLY – Koetter won’t pamper the running backs – in 9 on 7 drills this offseason. If you want to play a physical brand of football – run a proper 9 on 7 drill – without coddling your starting running backs.
Sign/Resign
• RB – Jacquizz Rodgers
Draft
• RB Samaje Perine – 4th Round
• RB Tarik Cohen – 7th Round
*If Rodgers bolts – I would go after (RB) – Lance Dunbar
*If Samaje Perine – Is off the board draft (RB) – Kareem Hunt
Walk-Into Camp, w/(6) backs – Walk-Out w/the Best (4)
• Jacquizz Rodgers | Samaje Perine | Peyton Barber <-Thumpers
• Charles Simms | Tarik Cohen | Russell Hansbrough <- Scatbacks
February 12th, 2017 at 7:41 pm
I don’t understand the logic of keeping Noah Spence as a ” Situational Pass Rusher”. I mean why would you pass up WR Michael Thomas, to draft a Part-Time player. As bad as we needed a WR to compliment Mike Evans, we pass up a great one for a Part-Time Player. Noah Spence should be a” Every Down DE”, all of this JPP talk is crazy.
February 12th, 2017 at 7:43 pm
I thought I were on the JPP thread.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:04 pm
@Defense Rules
Yea he has been pretty consistent in his first 2 seasons with the Bucs. 28.4 carries per game in 2015. 28.3 in 2016. My main point of emphasis is that the role of a workhorse or feature back has changed.
Perfect example is Adrian Peterson. An all-time great. Definition of a feature back… or was anyway.
He has 2,418 career carries. Only 166 (6.8%) of them have been on 3rd down. He has 241 career catches. Only 42 (17%) of them were on 3rd down. The reason these numbers are so low is because he barely plays on 3rd downs because a lot of 3rd downs are pass plays and when you aren’t effective as a receiver then you wont be on the field in key passing situations.
So with the offensive splits league wide becoming pretty much 60-40 pass vs run, it is almost a must that if a guy is going to be considered a feature back he has to be effective in the passing game as well as the run game.
That’s the point I was trying to make. Honestly I agree with you that running the ball more often and more effectively will be a big help to Jameis. If it is a true feature back that we need, imo he has to be just as helpful as a receiver too.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:06 pm
@LakeLandBuc
The only reason Noah Spence is a situational pass rusher is because he is a liability in run defense. Once he improves in run defense he will become an every down DE.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:07 pm
SB, you’re right. I just commented the word s-n-o-o-k and it never showed up!
February 12th, 2017 at 8:11 pm
Joey, Spence is a liability against the run because of his size. He’s got to get bigger to not get pushed around against run blocks. I can’t see him getting up to 260, which means we need to keep Gholston. His speed rush is what makes him special.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:13 pm
Yeah Eric…….now try g-a-t-r.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:15 pm
Joey
Agree with your observation about Noah. His run defense…as with virtually all rookie DE’s was his liability. But another liability last year was his damaged wing…tought on a DE..yet he sucked it up…once popping it back in himself..ouch…that’s way beyond NFL tough that’s hockey player tough.
He still managed over 5 sacks playing with the bum shoulder. If he heals I expect him to break out this year. He’s the one with the pure talent…once he gets the experience he’s going to be a baaaad dude…again depending on how well his shoulder heals.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:16 pm
Anyways I am back and that may have been a Record run up the Mountain and back.
SPBF…I guess I should have been a bit more drastic.
How many of those on that list have a SB ring?
It was just a list to those here suggesting that we Have to have a first round RB in order to contend for a SB.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:22 pm
As much as I love some.of.the earlier projected backs, I think the pick is going ro be a different need, and will be detrmined after fa
February 12th, 2017 at 8:24 pm
Adrian Peterson vs Samaje Perine (Oklahoma)
RB Adrian Peterson (Career Totals)
(2004) ATT: 339 | YDS: 1925 | AVG: 5.7 |TD’s: 15
(2005) ATT: 221 | YDS: 1104 | AVG: 5.0 |TD’s:14
(2006) ATT: 188 | YDS: 1012 | AVG: 5.4 | TD’s:12
*(T) ATT: 748 | YDS: 4041 | AVG: 5.4 |TD’s: 41
vs. (10 yrs. later)
RB Samaje Perine (Career Totals)
(2014) ATT: 263 | YDS: 1713 | AVG: 6.5 |TD’s:21
(2015) ATT: 226 | YDS: 1349 | AVG: 6.0 |TD’s:16
(2016) ATT: 196 | YDS: 1060 | AVG: 5.4 | TD’s:12
*(T) ATT: 685 | YDS: 4122 | AVG: 6.0 |TD’s: 49
February 12th, 2017 at 8:25 pm
SB, that’s too funny with gator! I’m hoping Spence has a similar career arc as Beasley. A pass rusher usually takes a year to acclimate to the NFL. I’m hoping for big things in year 2!
February 12th, 2017 at 8:26 pm
Just a quick Glance but I don’t see a First Round RB drafted in the last 15 years with a SB ring. Too late to research all 28 of em but I don’t recognize one.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:27 pm
I’m with you Eric. To see that he was such a warrior in year one is Definitely Promising. Get Calais Campbell in the middle next to GMC and we are talking.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:28 pm
@BuccaneEric75
He did say he wanted to bulk up this offseason. Probably wont hit 260. Either way, proper technique can make up for lack of size. And then like Stpete said, factor in the bum shoulder. That could be a huge difference maker in his development in the run game.
@Stpete
I’m with you man. If he heals right he can absolutely break out. One of the reasons I would like to see a DE drafted in the 1st again is to get his long term counter part. Would love to see 2 young stud DE’s learning and developing behind Ayers and potentially Calais Campbell. Maybe they inherit that attitude Ayers has. Then we got 2 warriors attacking QBs for years.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:29 pm
LUV my Brother! I see you are ringing the Same Bell as I am
Diff is though that AP didn’t have to share carries with Joe Mixon for two years. I think Perine is the hidden gem.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:32 pm
Joeypoppems … “if a guy is going to be considered a feature back he has to be effective in the passing game as well as the run game.” Agree 100%. Remember how hard Martin worked after his rookie yr to improve himself in the passing game & in pass protection? Paid off big-time in 2015 I’d say (we won’t talk about 2016).
February 12th, 2017 at 8:32 pm
@SB
Idk if you mean with the team that drafted them or not but Marshawn Lynch won with the Seahwaks and Rashard Mendenhall won 1 with the Steelers. Those are the only two I noticed
February 12th, 2017 at 8:35 pm
SB
Oh no doubt he is my brotha
February 12th, 2017 at 8:37 pm
Joseph Addai also won a ring with the Colts
February 12th, 2017 at 8:44 pm
SB
Adrian did share the backfield w/ running backs
• Kejuan Jones & Allen Patrick
February 12th, 2017 at 8:47 pm
Allan Patrick
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhuHScfHlcM
Lol kinda reminds of Mixon
Amazing how many good running backs – have played for the Sooners
February 12th, 2017 at 8:48 pm
@ LUV…….”who” 🙂
and Thanks for doing that research pops. I am Far too tired and lazy tonight.
February 12th, 2017 at 8:53 pm
Lol
February 12th, 2017 at 8:56 pm
The notion that taking a RB in the first hurts your chances to win a chip is a bit of a head scratcher to me. I could care less about what round I got DC I just see a talent that would enhance this offense. Be it first or fourth is of no relevance imo. The thing is I don’t understand how some say nay to RB in the first but can’t understand why GMs would have the same sentiment. Why then do we believe such and such will be long gone???
February 12th, 2017 at 9:01 pm
My Other Brotha from anotha Motha is here!! Howdy Nos! Did you catch anything?
February 12th, 2017 at 9:03 pm
Hears my question to anyone. Tell me your player or position of interest in round one and lets compare Who stands to have the greater day 1 impact from a production standpoint. Obviously I’m rolling wit Dalvin. Let me hear from y’all.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:04 pm
I didn’t go today I’ll be going one-day this week. On vacation. I’ll let you know how it went tho.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:06 pm
Where are you going? What are you targeting?
February 12th, 2017 at 9:08 pm
Nole, I love Cook, but the thought is if you take RB in round 1, you are passing on another player at a harder position to fill that could be great when you can get good running backs later.. You can get better value if, for example, you need a DE and a RB, if you take the DE in round 1 and the RB in round 4, than the other way around. You are much more likely to get a stud RB in the later rounds than other positions. If we got Cook with 19, I wouldn’t me mad, though.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:11 pm
Thank you Eric for summing that up so nicely. I have been trying to tell my brother almost the exact thing without being so eloquent. You’re last sentence is the KEY though. If DC is that dynamic there is no way he makes it out of the top 5 and there is no way this team trades up 14 spots. In my Humble opinion that is.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:13 pm
The Combine is gonna be REALLY fun for us Bucs fans this yr. Why? Because we are not picking in the top 10 and we have SO many options.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:17 pm
Nole, I’m not too worried about “day 1” impact. RBs usually come in and play well, while DEs usually take a year or so to beast out. I just want the best player for the long haul. If I want a Nole, and I do, I’d rather take DeMarcus Walker in the first and a RB later, rather than Cook in the first and another DE later. I want weapons for Winston more than anyone, but I think Walker is a stud and there are a lot of RBs that are going to be players. I don’t think we can get a good DE past round 2 unless we get lucky. Good RBs fall in the mid rounds every year. If we got Cook though, I’d still be happy.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:18 pm
Likely to get a stud running back inn the layer round??? This can be proving how??? Because their have been stud RBs drafted in later rounds historically??? Same can be said for stud RBs that have been drafted in the first i.e. the all time leading rusher.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:19 pm
75. DEs are a bigger crap shoot than QBs. We as Bucs fans know this.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:21 pm
I can’t understand this notion about DEs when being a lock when we’ve been wishing for a Siemien Rice replacement for years now.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:23 pm
Dalvin is easily 1500 yards rookie season in our system. I’ll be modest in saying 1200 rushing and 300 receiving. Just convo give me some names.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:23 pm
2nd Leading rusher from 2016 was drafted 150th overall.
There are a littany of Day 2 and 3 running backs in this class that could be Impact players from Day 1. Sameje Perine and Kareem Hunt being the most likely candidates for round 3. Jamaal Williams and Donnel Pumphrey for the 4th round. Tarik Cohen, Jahad Thomas in the 5th.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:24 pm
And Nosbos, there’s absolutely no guarantee that Dalvin rushes for 1000 yards. Let alone 1500 from scrimmage. He could get injured in the very first game.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:25 pm
Draft 101 …don’t show your hand. Why would he say he wants a RB AND LET ALL Teams know. Don’t believe anything you hear before draft !!!
February 12th, 2017 at 9:25 pm
A WR maybe??? ME is the number 1 so how many targets will this new guy get rookie season. Learning the NFL.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:26 pm
Blake the same could said for any player. Our 2nd pick played injured all season this year.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:29 pm
Blake I believe any team interested in taking Dalvin round 1 is doing so because they believe he is a 1000 yards as a rookie. Why would you even draft him that high if you felt any different.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:30 pm
It’s all about Risk vs Reward. And Rb is by far the most prevalent position that is successfully filled by later round picks. Yes, players in every position group have late round/ undrafted success stories. But competent late round running backs are much more common.
Evidenced by an article Joe posted about a month ago. 25% of all starting snaps taken by Running backs in the last decade were by day 3 picks or UDFA. A higher percentage than any other position.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:30 pm
I just happen to believe he will be utilized in the lading game thusly having a great impact in that manner as a rookie as well.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:32 pm
To me, getting a RB in the 1st round is like getting trading up to get a Kicker in the second round. Way too much wasted value
DL, OL in the first. Solomon Thomas in the 1st please
DE Demarcus Walker is also a stud. 2nd
And “Quick 6” WR from Oregon state in 3rd
Please please please
February 12th, 2017 at 9:32 pm
Nole…you know i like DE Taco Charlton in the 1st round.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:33 pm
I get what you saying there but if I’m a GM and my team’s productivity was as porous as ours was this year that rule may have to be placed on the back burner. Especially when my HC is longing for weapons for his young QB.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:36 pm
Nole…And you seen what Taco Charlton did to FSU QB..Deondre Francois. He was hitting Francois so much that he asked Charlton * man what you got against me*. He even knocked him out of the game for a play.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:36 pm
Its going to be interesting seeing is how many on jbf want defense in the first. I think y’all feel that is safer. But I’m looking at what our defense accomplished this season. We won because of defense a number of games. But still barely outscored a number of opponents.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:37 pm
☺I hear you Lakeland. He kept getting up tho.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:41 pm
Nole, only one playoff team drafted thier starting RB in round 1. If rather have Walker in the 1st and Hunt in the 3rd, than Cook in the 1st and Daeshon Hall in the 3rd. Any pick can bust. I’m not saying I’m right. There are just more good RBs taken later than any other position. I’d still be happy if we get Cook, I think he’ll be great, I’m just looking at combinations of players we could get with all of our picks.. More likely to get a good RB later than say a WR or DE.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:42 pm
I want Calais Campbell and Taco Charlton.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:44 pm
I Want us to address our most major needs on D in free agency. I think we’ll have enough cap space, after we dump a few vets and a few bums, to take on 4-5 sizable impact free agents.
1. Calais Campell/ Kawann Short 10-12 mil a year over 3-4 years
2. JPP/ Melvin Ingram/ Chandler Jones 7-9 mil over 2-3 years
3. Kenny Stills/ Desean Jackson 6-8.5 Mil over 2-3 years
4. Tony Jefferson S 5-6 Mil over 2 years
Possible 5. Ron Leary if Licht/ Koetter are Uneasy about Sweezy.
I would be very enthused by these signings.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:46 pm
If somehow, someway, Free Agency could shake out even remotely close to that…
My Dream Draft would be:
Round 1 – O.J Howard
Round 2 – Curtis Samuel/ Cooper Kupp
Round 3 Sameje Perine/ Kareem Hunt.
Mucho Armas Para Yameis!
February 12th, 2017 at 9:51 pm
We have plenty of needs and I don’t necessarily want to go D in the 1st. We could draft RB, WR, TE, OL, DL, CB, or S in the first round. I just used DE as an example because Ayers won’t be around forever and he can “bridge” a rookie (Walker) before he’s gone. I’d rather have Solomon Thomas, but I think he’ll be gone, and I don’t see any stud T or G in the first.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:56 pm
Blake Calais and Short would be a dream. That’s a playoff spot in itself.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:58 pm
Both of them would be highly improbable. I would be beyond stoked with both. But would be tremendously happy with either or.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:58 pm
I’m not an expert by a long shot. But Solo Thomas gone be a bad dude man.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:58 pm
This draft is overloaded with Quality Defensive Players.
February 12th, 2017 at 9:59 pm
I agree I’d be happy.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:02 pm
Agreed on Solomon Thomas, eerily reminiscent of Aaron Donald.
Alas, 99 percent certain that he’ll be a top 10’er
February 12th, 2017 at 10:02 pm
I mean Jason Licht was talking Big pertaining to free agency. So I’m expecting a nice surprise. I truly believe like someone mentioned a week or so ago discussions have to be already privately taking place.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:04 pm
I just hope he doesn’t end up a panther. I’m tired of them finding bad boy D linemen. Thank Gawd Hardy had issues.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:06 pm
Taco Charlton stock will shoot up after the combine. You don’t find a 6’6 275 lb DE/DT everyday of the week. Especially with his burst, strength and athleticism. He’s compares to Jason Tuck, can play any postion on the D-Line.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:06 pm
Blake, OJ, Cupp and Hunt. I said that earlier! I’d be excited with that draft! Many possibilities though.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:07 pm
@Eric Didn’t see that bro but Right on brother! Glad we’re on the same page.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:08 pm
You never know Jason Licht will do. I just like certain players, but Licht has his own players of choice.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:09 pm
@LakelandBuc Not saying that Taco Charlton can’t develop into a terrific pass rusher, but he looks like more of a run stuffer on film to me. And we already have a 6’6 270 DE/DT in Will Gholston.
Just food for thought my dude.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:16 pm
If you were forced to go defense round one Blake who you like???
February 12th, 2017 at 10:17 pm
Assuming Thomas is already gone..
February 12th, 2017 at 10:19 pm
Blake he is a run stuffer. But he get after the QB too. He started the year off slow, he got hurt early during the 1st game of the season. He hurt his ankle and didn’t returned until week 4. He was still playing hurt, but during the last 4 games of the season. He bust out with 22 Tackles, 5.5 sacks, he finish the season with 10 sacks in 10 games. Including 2.5 sacks against Ohio State.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:25 pm
Charles sims will be a very good player in 2017 he’ll be healthy and ready to go and he’s young he’s only going to get better he’s so young! people are such haters man I’m rooting for Charles to show he can be a feature back but even me as one of his biggest fans knows he’s better suited to 3D down but we’ll see I just know he’s gunna have a big year
February 12th, 2017 at 10:28 pm
Of the guys likely to be available, I really like Budda Baker out of Washington, hard hitting Ball hawk. Not the fastest guy, but very athletic, and a dynamic play maker.
Charles Harris seems like he could develop into a beast of a pass rusher. As others have noted he whips out this gnarly spin move, and its very effective.
I happen to like him more than Taco charlton, because he is a better all around DE. He has a more developed set of pass rushing moves & counter moves. And most importantly, he enough quick twitch athleticism to bend the edge against slower guys. And he excels at converting that speed to power on a bull rush.
And for CB Teez Tabor looks like a cold blooded killer. Teez Tabor is a tall DB, he is also fast, physical, and his arms are long. But my favorite quality displayed by Teez, is his intelligence. He plays mind games with QB’s. Much like Show time would do, he gives himself space to operate, and bait QB’s into making throws they shouldn’t.
And to be perfectly Honest, I still really like Jabrill Peppers. Instincts, heart, athleticism, and Love of the game. All these qualities are held by peppers. And while he never did get a pick in College, he’s not terrible in Pass coverage, and has the tools to develop into a monstrous Free safety. His ceiling is close to that of an Earl Thomas. Plus he’s a dynamic return man.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:31 pm
If all of my Desired Offensive guys are gone, I/E Corey Davis, O.J. Howard, Christian McCaffery, maybe even Dalvin Cook……………….
I’d roll with anyone of those guys on D.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:32 pm
I don’t watch tape or Youtube highlights of these players. I watch them in live games. I watch Taco Charlton in the Ohio State-Michigan game and the FSU-Michigan game in the Orange Bowl. Both games he dominated the LT, stayed in the backfield. I’m talking the entire game, not just a few splash plays.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:34 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpFHmYEzWUc
Some Sick Budda Baker plays.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:36 pm
Okay okay. So this Budda Baker could be next Ed Reed or is that stretching it???
February 12th, 2017 at 10:36 pm
Mmmm that may be a bit of an overstatement, but the kid looks like a Dog.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:37 pm
He looked good against us Lakeland..
February 12th, 2017 at 10:38 pm
I don’t think he has the same kind of speed as Reed did. But he’s a thumper, and he has hands. He’s a baller for sure.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:38 pm
Oh okay.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:39 pm
Give me an NFL comparison for Tabor..
February 12th, 2017 at 10:39 pm
People keep saying that Charles Sims tap dance before hitting the hole. Le’Veon Bell goes into a full hesitation before hitting the hole. And it’s very effective, Charles Sims is a good RB. But a back like him need to get out in space and do his thing. The problem was the Bucs O-Line couldn’t created holes for him.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:40 pm
@LakelandBuc I think Charleton looks good. I just like Harris more because I prefer pass rushers to a have a little bit of speed too.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:40 pm
@Nosbos, Off the top of my head, Tabor reminds me of Marcus Peters.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:41 pm
Nole..Quincy Wilson is the better CB, coming from Florida. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s a Top-10 pick.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:42 pm
@LakelandBuc, Quincy is view as the better one now, but it’s debatable which has the higher ceiling. And precisely as you said, Wilson will most likely be gone before we pick. Where as Teez Tabor could realistically fall to us.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:44 pm
If you haven’t already seen him, I introduce Jalen “Teez” Tabor
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOWc1i8R6hw
February 12th, 2017 at 10:44 pm
Okay Lakeland ima look out for him. One thing that Baker look like He does have in common with Ed Reed is that tackling in space.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:47 pm
He does look like Marcus Peters.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:55 pm
@Yeah bro baker is a beast of a tackler. And you can tell he makes his presence felt, based on the reactions from the recipients of his hits. And both Wilson and Tabor are phenomenally talented Corners.
February 12th, 2017 at 10:58 pm
And dont discount the Hybrid talent, Jack of all trades beast Jabrill Peppers.
Just Put Jabrill in a pursuit situation and watch him go.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEjoi9pzUf0
February 12th, 2017 at 11:14 pm
If you were to interview him at the combine and you told him you see him as a NFL safety. He and his agent say they’re looking for corner back money. How would you respond???
February 12th, 2017 at 11:23 pm
Hmm, I don’t really know how to answer that. But I’m fairly certain that All First round picks have a set salary. So I don’t really think he and his agent would become at all worrisome until his rookie contract expired.
https://www.joebucsfan.com/2017/02/dont-rule-koetters-love-rbs/#comment-3776960
In his current Mold, I think that Jabrill would function best right away either at Sam/ Leo Line Backer. He excels at getting penetration behind the LOS against the run. And he definitely shows the speed necessary to get the QB on a blitz.
February 12th, 2017 at 11:23 pm
But I think he has the athleticism and tools develop into a very good free safety.
February 12th, 2017 at 11:24 pm
http://mmqb.si.com/2014/05/22/nfl-rookie-contract-negotiations
Disregard that link, this is the one I meant to post.
February 12th, 2017 at 11:31 pm
Good look. I’ll read it in detail in the morning. Gettin kinda sleepy. Signing off bro. Holla at ya again then.
February 12th, 2017 at 11:33 pm
Later
February 12th, 2017 at 11:40 pm
Hey Blake, in regards to your Tabor highlights. Keanu Neal, and Brian Poole both are rookies for ATL from Fla as well that played in a Superbowl. To think that they roamed the field With VH3, and Tabor, and Quincy Wilson, all at the same time is to think just how Sad it was that Florida had no QB.
February 12th, 2017 at 11:46 pm
I see the Quincy Wilson vs Tabor comparisons. Coming from someone that watched every game they ever played I would say you can’t go wrong with Either one. Wilson is a more ‘Pure Cover’ guy but Tabor is a “Playmaker”. Which do you prefer?
February 13th, 2017 at 12:24 am
I think Wilson is Probably the better corner currently, and a Better athlete. But as you said, Tabor is more of a playmaking corner, and I think he is very cunning and intelligent. Also believe he’s more likely to be available.
And you are probably right about UF. I don’t claim to be a gator’s fan, but any games I have seen of them, their Defense balls, and and their offense sucks them LOL.
February 13th, 2017 at 12:43 am
I get why people have given up on Doug, but I don’t know why everyone has given up on Sims. I’m not saying Sims can take Doug’s place, but I still think he’s a great RB2 and a great receiving back.
February 13th, 2017 at 1:18 am
Is that Blake and Nos getting along? Hll must have froze over.
February 13th, 2017 at 4:36 am
Yes! In your FACE! NOS BLOWS
February 13th, 2017 at 5:52 am
Chris, I was thinking the same thing! Lol
February 13th, 2017 at 1:40 pm
I’m telling you, they have to go one of the two lines or wide receiver in the first round, unless a truly remarkable player falls to us.
February 15th, 2017 at 5:45 pm
Lets go after Antonio brown
February 16th, 2017 at 12:32 am
Door closed.
April 29th, 2017 at 11:03 am
Way to eat crow, Joe…
…wait…nevermind…
April 29th, 2017 at 11:05 am
Well, to be fair, the sensible Joe wrote this article.
April 29th, 2017 at 11:19 am
The Buc Realist Says:
August 9th, 2016 at 10:57 am
NFL Draft 2017 WR, TE, ,Safety
I told you almost a year ago!!!!!
April 29th, 2017 at 11:20 am
Reading through the comments…NOS wasn’t as annoying as he was in March and April.
April 29th, 2017 at 11:37 am
All those Nole on Sat (part time Bucs fan on Sunday) post are too funny
April 29th, 2017 at 11:56 am
Wow a doppleganger! Another St. Pete Bucs fan here this morning.
At least he’s not posting bad stuff trying to make me look bad. LOL
There is more than one way to skin the cat. Obviously having a star running back that truly excites us is not in the cards. Having said that we have a right as fans to be optimistic and look at the best potential result not the worst.
Best case scenarios for me at this point….Barber turns out to be a pretty solid power runner to work into our committee…Sims gets healthy and stays healthy…he clearly has talent…not a power betweeen the tackles guy but he’s clearly explosive which leaves our bell cow Quizz. Perhaps he’ll have a couple of Maurice Jones Drew like seasons. Maybe he’s just now beginning to blossom. We can at least hope.
The other factor is our OL. If the middle pans out…Pamphile..Marpet..Sweezy..we could have three mean nasty guys right in the gut of the line and Donavan is also a good run blocker. Again we have the “chance” to develop an OL that even a Barber or Quizz will look good running behind.
I’ve given up on an exciting game changing RB. That’s just not Koetter’s plan.
He loves his 4 vertical…he loves his TE’s….he is now loaded with targets downfield for #3.
But we have NO blocking in the backfield..AT ALL…perhaps Koetter will return Stocker to that hybrid FB position.
I just know with the very successful offseason so far in getting #weaponsforJameis….I’m now singing a new hashtag. #protectionforJameis
Need a stud RT now…and somebody who can block in the backfield…at least our new TE has a great rep as a blocker.
April 29th, 2017 at 12:01 pm
If Mack falls to us Bucs will take him in the 5th. I don’t see us trading up again.
April 29th, 2017 at 12:24 pm
Martin will be the bellcow.
April 29th, 2017 at 12:24 pm
Barber and hump both serviceable but not game changers. In the 4th no one is worried about Simms, Barber or Hump
April 29th, 2017 at 12:29 pm
Marlon Mack or Tarik Cohen in the 5th
April 29th, 2017 at 1:04 pm
lol Pete we all know thats you ahahaha
April 29th, 2017 at 2:12 pm
I hoped martin straightens himself out, and I have always hoped they would bring him back. But counting on the fact that he 10 Stays off drugs, and 2) Stays helathy are two major factors against him. I would say it is less than a 50% that he is able to pull off both. Therefore, the Bucs should have addressed RB in the first 4 rounds. I know people are sometimes able to get late round gems and such, but I don’t think the Bucs are at a place to count on this. RB could be our biggest offensive weakness with what the Bucs did in the draft and offseason.
April 29th, 2017 at 2:13 pm
The Bucs made a massive investment at the position when they gave Martin that huge new deal just a year ago coming off a season where he was 2nd in the NFL in rushing and had a much better yards per carry than the rushing leader AD. Last season Martin got injured in Phoenix and wasn’t the same.
April 29th, 2017 at 2:37 pm
There was a noticable difference in Doug Martins running style last year compared to years past. He seemed a lot heavier on his feet. Dougs never been fast but In 2015 Doug had smoother cuts and was a whole lot more agile than last year. Maybe with a great offseason he can return to his normal form but as he nears 30 idk if I can expect that.
April 29th, 2017 at 2:51 pm
Joe, You were saying?????????