Sometimes, a lot of important statements are made by a general manager once they’re at the combine. Not just because of what the combine represents, but also to bolster support for their organization. That is what Jason Licht attempted to do in his press conference yesterday. As the Bucs prepare for a highly important offseason, Licht wanted to press all the right buttons, specifically when it came to offseason moves.
For a team that doesn’t necessarily make blockbuster moves, Jason Licht seemed surprisingly open to potentially making a huge offseason addition. “I’m not opposed,” Licht said about making a blockbuster trade. “I wouldn’t say that it’s in my DNA to refrain from doing those things. It’s got to be right, it’s got to be the right trade, it’s got to be the right player; it’s a lot of factors that go into it”.
Blockbuster Talk Enters the Picture
Of course, Bucs fans may have to take this information with a grain of salt considering past rumors that may not have come to fruition.
Another huge point of discussion also stemmed around some in house decisions as well. Not only are two of the franchise’s stalwart players in Mike Evans and Lavonte David on the edge of departing from the team, but the Bucs have free agents they may want to tie down as well. As of now, six players have a value of over 20 million dollars on the team. A guy like Chris Godwin, who is eligible for an extension, but will be 30 next year, may not end up finishing his career with the team.
Also consider the fact Baker Mayfield could be eligible for one as well as defensive tackle Vita Vea, right tackle Cody Mauch, and safety Antoine Winfield Jr. This gave Jason Licht a lot to think about when it comes to tough decisions concerning the future.
“That’s the tricky situation,” Licht said . “You have to look at the whole picture… You want to maintain flexibility at all times to be able to do something that might surprise you. Surprises always come up. Moving on from players who have been very good is very tough, especially when they’re playing at a very high level”.
Franchise Cornerstones Face Uncertain Futures
It is this uncertainty that could leave several fans wondering of certain franchise players could be leaving this offseason. The intriguing setting also sets a very interesting tone. At the NFL Combine, GMs and scouts alike are potentially analyzing future franchise players. For Licht, while he believes there to be a decent infrastructure for the Bucs, could also be thinking more long term as well.
No matter what happens this offseason, the Bucs could be in a pretty solid place or start looking like a new team entirely. Still, Licht’s comments should keep Bucs fans hopeful that perhaps something shocking and surprising could be on the horizon. Maybe it has something to do with Maxx Crosby..or maybe some tough player departures.
The bottom line is things could get very fascinating in Tampa Bay.
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