The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have had a productive offseason so far, focusing heavily on retaining key players like Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans, Lavonte David, and Antoine Winfield Jr. They also managed to bring back Jordan Whitehead after a brief stint with the New York Jets. However, this came at the cost of trading starting cornerback Carlton Davis to the Detroit Lions in exchange for draft picks.
To address the gap left by Davis, the Buccaneers signed Tavierre Thomas in free agency. While Thomas has limited interceptions in his career, the Buccaneers also have potential replacements from their 2023 roster who could step up. Head coach Todd Bowles, a former NFL defensive back, has a strong track record of identifying and developing talent in the secondary, including players like Mike Edwards and Jamel Dean.
Bowles has spoken highly of Zyon McCollum, indicating a possible promotion for the third-year cornerback, though it could also be mere praise without significance. If the Buccaneers and Bowles aren’t confident in their current options, drafting a cornerback becomes a priority in the 2024 NFL Draft.
This draft presents a unique opportunity for Tampa Bay to add talent and potentially have a player from the city represented on a Buccaneers jersey.
Who is T.J. Tampa?
T.J. Tampa, hailing from Iowa State, is a cornerback with a physique reminiscent of Todd Bowles’ defensive back style. Standing tall at 6’1” and weighing just under 190 pounds, Tampa possesses the coveted attributes of length and ball skills, making him a potential force in the secondary—a rare cornerback with the ability to deliver impactful hits.
In the previous season, Tampa demonstrated his prowess by securing two interceptions along with 44 tackles and seven pass deflections. Over his last two collegiate seasons, he amassed 83 tackles and three interceptions.
Lance Zierlein, writing on NFL.com, lauded Tampa for his physicality both in coverage and run support. Zierlein highlighted Tampa’s instincts and ball skills as key attributes that could earn him a spot on an NFL roster.
In a notable play against Cincinnati, Tampa showcased his instincts and ball skills by effectively reading the play. Positioned in an underneath zone, he adeptly anticipated the route combination, recognizing the offense’s attempt to lure him forward with a short route before throwing an out-breaking intermediate route over his head. Instead of falling for the bait, Tampa demonstrated patience and understanding, reading the quarterback’s intentions and retreating backward after the throw to secure an interception.
TJ TAMPA IS THE BEST CB IN THE NATION 🌪 pic.twitter.com/npY0Z7KMeb
— OutCYde the Lines (@OutCYdetheLines) October 14, 2023
How does Tampa fit in Tampa Bay?
Zierlein’s critique of T.J. Tampa’s weaknesses shares similarities with those of Carlton Davis, a player who faced challenges but managed to excel in Todd Bowles’ defensive system.
“Doesn’t possess elite speed to keep up with fast NFL receivers downfield.”
“Struggles to track elusive route runners.”
“Tackling in open space can be inconsistent.”
Given the emphasis on Tampa’s lack of top-end speed, there’s curiosity about his performance at his Pro Day.
From NFL scout at Big 12 pro day:
CB TJ Tampa 4.52/4.55 in 40-yard dash.
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) March 28, 2024
Carlton Davis posted a 4.53-second time in the 40-yard dash.
Given Todd Bowles’ track record of success with defensive backs, T.J. Tampa may not be a flawless prospect, but with a coach of Bowles’ caliber, there’s potential to unlock his full abilities. Tampa possesses the physical attributes and traits typically associated with a Todd Bowles-coached cornerback, and the fact that he shares a name with the city where he could be playing his home games adds an interesting narrative.
While it may sound like a cliché, there’s a saying: “If the shoe fits, wear it.” In this scenario, the sentiment could be, “If the name fits, draft it.” The idea of Tampa playing for Tampa practically writes its own headline.
Leave a Reply