Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Does Gerald McCoy want out?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive lineman Gerald McCoy has been a stalwart for the team, but could he want to go somewhere he’ll be more respected?

It is no secret that Gerald McCoy is an important part of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense, in particular the defensive line. His 6.5 sacks were tied for most on the team and he proved his worth last season as a playmaker. In theory, it sounds like the perfect match for both the team and player: A veteran defensive player is part of a team on the rise, one with the right mix of youth and talent.

The only problem is, it does not sound like he wants to be in Tampa Bay much longer.

On Saturday, the Tampa Bay Times wrote a piece in which writer Martin Fennelly interviewed former cornerback Ronde Barber about what it takes to be a “badass” as part of a series of interviews with members of the Bucs’ 2002 Super Bowl-winning team. Barber had this to say about the defense, including McCoy.

"“But you see an attitude emerging, especially at linebacker. Those two guys, Lavonte (David) and Kwon (Alexander) have to be able to drive the bus, especially Kwon, because he has so much energy. If he can consistently be that guy, it will raise the defense. I love Gerald (McCoy), but for a defensive tackle to drive a team, he has to have a huge personality. I mean like the personality of (Warren) Sapp or a John Randle.”"

McCoy did not take too kindly to these comments responding to the report in a series of tweets. One of them in particular was very cryptic:

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It sounds as though he is tired of playing in the shadow of David and Alexander. It would be accurate to feel that way especially given the fantastic seasons that Alexander and David had. Whether he feels as though he is not getting the recognition nationally or from within the organization is not completely clear.

If McCoy were to leave the team, this would leave a big hole on the defensive front. He is the starting left defensive tackle and finding someone that could replace him and give them the same production would be difficult. Clinton McDonald is penciled in at the No. 2 spot behind him, but he’s not nearly the same caliber of player.

McDonald played in 12 games last season, recording 25 tackles and 3.5 sacks. Those are certainly not bad numbers, but he lacks the same explosive playmaking McCoy has. He will be a free agent following the 2018 season, and it will be interesting to see what Tampa Bay does with him if McCoy truly wants out. Signing him to a one-year deal wouldn’t be a bad idea

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With that in mind, the Bucs to focus on making sure he is happy. He can opt out of his contract next season, and if he feels as though that is the right path to take, he may do so.

There is no denying McCoy is a huge part of the defensive line, and I think the team recognizes that. However, judging by these tweets, McCoy is tired of not getting the attention he deserves and thus may be packing his bags sooner rather than later.