Tampa Bay Buccaneers guard Davin Joseph (75) during the first quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers came into the month of March with two potential veteran cap casualties on the offensive line in established starters Donald Penn and Davin Joseph. The latter name was always the more likely cap casualty, because he is significantly worse than Penn, is far less durable, and plays a less important position. It was reported earlier this week that the Bucs put Joseph on the trade block, and that was the first sign that he would be cut. I mean, nobody in their right mind would trade for a 30-year-old guard who is extremely expensive, deals with nagging injuries, and can’t pass protect.
It was unsurprising to hear Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times report that the Bucs have decided to cut ties (cut their losses, really) with Davin Joseph today, the start of the legal tampering period. Joseph is now free to sign anywhere, and his run blocking ability will likely net him a starting job on a cheap contract with a team in dire need of a starting right guard.
The Buccaneers now have a huge need at guard, but they can now pursue somebody better, younger, and cheaper. It will be interesting to see how they upgrade the position, especially after saving $6 million by releasing the underperforming vet.