The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have had a strong start to the 2021 NFL season, but there is always room for improvement. One area that could use a boost is the team’s edge rusher position. With the recent news of Jason Pierre-Paul’s injury, it is clear that the Bucs need to add depth and talent to their pass rush. That’s where free agent Yannick Ngakoue comes in.
Ngakoue is a proven Pro Bowl edge rusher who could provide a much-needed boost to the Buccaneers’ defense. He has consistently been one of the top pass rushers in the league since entering the NFL in 2016. In his five seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Minnesota Vikings, Ngakoue has recorded 45.5 sacks, 16 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions. His impressive stats and relentless playing style make him a valuable asset for any team.
The Buccaneers’ edge rusher position has been a concern for some time now. While Pierre-Paul and Shaquil Barrett have been solid starters, the depth behind them is lacking. The team has struggled to find a consistent third pass rusher, and Ngakoue could be the missing piece to complete the Bucs’ defensive line.
One of the main reasons why Ngakoue would be a perfect fit for the Buccaneers is his familiarity with the team’s defensive scheme. He played under current Bucs defensive coordinator Todd Bowles during his time with the Jaguars. This means that Ngakoue would not only bring his talent to the team but also his knowledge of the system. He would be able to seamlessly integrate into the Bucs’ defense and make an immediate impact.
Another factor that makes Ngakoue an attractive option for the Buccaneers is his age. At 26 years old, he is in the prime of his career and has plenty of years left to contribute to the team. This is important for the Bucs, who have a veteran quarterback in Tom Brady and are looking to make a Super Bowl run this season. Ngakoue’s youth and talent would be a valuable addition to the team’s already strong roster.
Some may argue that the Buccaneers do not need to sign Ngakoue because they already have a strong pass rush with Pierre-Paul and Barrett. However, having a deep and talented defensive line is crucial in today’s NFL. Injuries and fatigue are common, and having a third pass rusher like Ngakoue would give the Bucs an advantage over their opponents. It would also allow the team to rotate their pass rushers and keep them fresh throughout the game.
Moreover, Ngakoue’s addition to the Buccaneers would not only benefit the team on the field but also off the field. He is known for his leadership and work ethic, which would be a positive influence on the younger players on the team. Ngakoue’s presence in the locker room would bring a new level of intensity and motivation, pushing the team to be even better.
In addition to his talent and leadership, Ngakoue’s character is also commendable. He has been a vocal advocate for social justice and has used his platform to bring attention to important issues. This aligns with the Buccaneers’ values, as the team has been actively involved in various community initiatives. Ngakoue’s addition to the team would not only strengthen the defense but also the team’s overall image.
In conclusion, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers should not hesitate to sign Yannick Ngakoue. He is a proven Pro Bowl edge rusher who would bring a much-needed boost to the team’s weakest position group. His familiarity with the defensive scheme, youth, talent, leadership, and character make him a perfect fit for the Bucs. With Ngakoue on the team, the Buccaneers would have a formidable pass rush that could help them make a deep playoff run and potentially win another Super Bowl. So, let’s hope to see Ngakoue in a Bucs jersey soon and watch him wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks.
