Buccaneers' Off-Season Checklist

Another season, another lowly finish for the Bucs. Tampa Bay finished last in the NFC South as they were blown away by great division adversaries. What can they do to compete in the NFC South and return to the playoffs?

• Bolster the Defensive Line (done): The Bucs added veteran Jason Pierre-Paul to boost their defensive line. Pierre-Paul (48 tackles, eight sacks last season) will add leadership to a team that needs to achieve more, especially up front. Tampa also added Vita Vea in the draft to make a more fearsome line.
  
• Cut the Fat (done): Doug Martin was making just over $5 million last year and wanted more, but the Bucs didn't budge. Therefore, they let Martin walk. It turns out that Martin was suspended for PEDs not too long ago, so it seems to be a smart move. The Bucs also cut Robert Ayers, Jr., who was  supposed to make $5 million this year.
  
• Find a Replacement for Martin (done): Ronald Jones is seen as an explosive running back who can do work on the outside. He's a younger replacement for Martin and should have some blocking in front of him compared to his college days at USC.