TAMPA, Fla. – An offseason look at whose stock is rising and falling for the Buccaneers:
RISING
Jacquies Smith: The defensive end was picked up off waivers from Buffalo early in the season. He ended up earning a starting job and was second on the team with 6.5 sacks. Smith should go to training camp as a favorite to keep that starting job.
Danny Lansanah: A journeyman who spent time in the United Football League, Lansanah ended up as the starter at strongside linebacker. He also got some playing time in the middle when Mason Foster was injured. With Foster’s future in Tampa Bay unclear, Lansanah could make the switch to the middle. At worst, he’ll be back starting on the strong side.
Bradley McDougald: He moved into a starting safety role and drew consistent praise from coach Lovie Smith and defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier. McDougald can play either safety position and should be in a starting role next season.
FALLING
Doug Martin: He didn’t look anything like the running back who ran for more than 1,400 yards as a rookie in 2012. Injuries played a role, but there was more to it than that. This coaching staff doesn’t seem to be enamored with Martin. The coaching staff and front office are wed to Charles Sims, who was a third-round pick last year and appears to be the future at the position. Martin could be trade bait in the offseason.
Dashon Goldson: His stock is on the decline after he was used in a rotational basis toward the end of last season. Goldson could be a candidate for a trade or a possible salary-cap cut.
Anthony Collins: Perhaps the biggest free-agent bust in the league last year. Collins was signed to be the starting left tackle. The coaches quickly soured on his work ethic and attitude, and Collins was benched for the final three games. He almost certainly will be released as soon as the league year opens in March.