Free Agency 2014: Sleeper Signings For The Tampa Bay Buccaneers
By Rob Clement
January 26, 2014; Honolulu, HI, USA; Team Rice running back Dexter McCluster of the Kansas City Chiefs (22) is defended by Team Sanders punt returner Cordarrelle Patterson of the Minnesota Vikings (84) during the 2014 Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium. Team Rice defeated Team Sanders 22-21. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Wide Receivers
Dexter McCluster
If you watch ESPN or NFL Network, you probably are under the impression that Devin Hester is a few days a way from wearing on of those new uniforms. The way I see it there is a younger, and perhaps better option available in Dexter McCluster. While McLuster is a Pro Bowl return specialist, he doesn’t receive anywhere near the national notoriety he deserves.
Not only would McCluster add to special teams, but he would add something to the receiving corps well. Over each of the past three years the Largo native has had 151 catches. Meanwhile Hester, who is six years his senior, has only caught 89 passes over that same span.
Two things the Buccaneers offensive weapons lack are speed and versatility. McCluster could be the right man to fill those void.
Dec 8, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Buffalo Bills tight end Scott Chandler (84) is defended by Tampa Bay Buccaneers middle linebacker Mason Foster (59) during the first quarter of the game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports
Tight Ends
Scott Chandler
Brandon Pettigrew, Jermichael Finley and Fred Davis are just a few flashy names on the market that may seem appealing to Bucs fans.
While the talent of those players is impressive all three offer injury concerns that provide major red flags. On the flip side there is Scott Chandler. While playing in Buffalo he has survived a myriad of quarterbacks all the while being a reliable receiver and blocker.
Adding a target with a 6-foot-7 frame would help take the red zone heat off of Vincent Jackson and Mike Williams assuming he gets back to form.
A safe move in free agency at tight end could help prevent the Buccaneers from reaching for a player like Eric Ebron early in the draft.