The Bucs have addressed their passing coverage issues in the secondary this offseason in a variety of ways.
Whether it be through getting healthy, drafting help, or signing players, they have done it all. One last way they were expected to make a splash on their defense was to explore a position change for one of their younger players on defense, Tykee Smith.
The 2024 rookie defensive back proved he had a knack for finding the ball repeatedly last season, so the idea of him moving to safety was floated.
However, PFF recently projected every depth chart across the NFL, and when it came time for the Bucs, they had Smith at his regular position. They listed Smith with the cornerbacks alongside Jamel Dean and Zyon McCollum. At safety, they had Antoine Winfield Jr. and Christian Izien in the starting roles.
Of course, the preseason and training camp could change things as the season approaches, so anything could happen.
Todd Bowles has shown he will get creative with his defensive scheming, especially with his secondary players. Smith could see some looks at safety, even if he plays primarily at cornerback. The team will need to have a healthy rotation and including him in it will allow that to happen.
