NFL: Each Team’s Biggest 2015 X-Factor

Aug 6, 2015; Tampa Bay, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins (87) runs with the ball as he works out during training camp at One Buc Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Tampa Bay Buccaneers TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins

Based on the conflicting reports we’ve heard so far during training camp (I’m more inclined to go with ESPN’s negative thoughts over positive thoughts from an official team writer, but that’s just me), it’s hard to tell exactly where Tampa Bay Buccaneers second-year tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins is in his quest to have a breakout season.

I like to bet on former basketball players at TE who can block and have excellent ball skills, so I like ASJ’s chances. The problem is that if he drops too many passes and can’t make things happen with the ball in his hands, then it’s going to be hard for him to find his footing with Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson hoarding targets.

I just sincerely hope he plays well enough to avoid being out-targeted by Louis Murphy and Brandon Myers, and it would be a huge loss for the Buccaneers offense to have Myers playing a bigger role than ASJ. The former Washington star could give Jameis Winston a huge boost if he plays up to his potential, and he could also be a nice blocker for prime bounce-back candidate Doug Martin.

Next: Opportunity Knocks for Rookie