Tampa Bay Buccaneers: T.J. Ward brings litany of positives
A Pro Bowler, safety T.J. Ward will bring a multitude of assets to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Usually, the beginning of September is not the time for rumors, but the Tampa Bay Buccaneers may be the exception to that rule. Early Sunday morning, James Palmer of the NFL Network tweeted that the team is expected to sign former Broncos safety T.J. Ward.
The three-time Pro Bowler had a stellar season in 2016. Recording 87 tackles, a sack and an interception, he proved to be a versatile part of the Denver defense.
former #broncos safety T.J. Ward expected to sign with the Buccaneers, per source
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) September 3, 2017
For his career, Ward has 564 tackles, 8.5 sacks and eight interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. The best season of his career came with the Cleveland Browns in 2010. That year, he really put himself on the map.
More from Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- 2023 NFL Season: NFC South shaping up to be an exciting division
- 2023 NFL Season: 3 teams who are already doomed
- Ranking the 5 best NFL uniform changes for the 2023 season
- Baker Mayfield gets big endorsement from Buccaneers teammate
- 2023 NFL Season: 3 major in-season trades that could go down
Recording 123 tackles and two interceptions, and was named to the Pro Football Writer’s Association’s All-Rookie Team in 2010. He also won the Super Bowl with the Broncos in 2016,
Ward is one of the most physical safeties in all of the NFL. This will be a great pickup for Tampa Bay because he can bring an edge to what is already going to be a solid defensive group. In addition, he will provide veteran leadership at the position.
Although it may not sound like much at face value, leadership and a veteran presence could be valuable for someone like Vernon Hargreaves, a second-year player. If you have the chance to learn from T.J. Ward, you have to take it.
Next: NFL QB Power Rankings 2017: Week 1
With the caliber of running backs in the NFC South, this signing should not go unnoticed as Ward can stop them. He will make an immediate impact for the team. He has shown time and time again that he can be a playmaker and the Buccaneers hope to capture some of that.