NFL Free Agency 2020: 5 Best landing spots for Shaquil Barrett

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers absolutely want Barrett back for the long-term. Tampa Bay’s defensive front served as the team’s strong point in 2019. While Jameis Winston did throw for 5,000 yards and Mike Evans and Chris Godwin may be the best wide receiver duo in football, the Buccaneers won games with their defense.

Barrett more than doubled Tampa Bay’s second-leading sacker. While he contributed 19.5 sacks, Tampa’s other defenders recorded 27.5 sacks. Without the emerging outside linebacker, Tampa Bay goes from an above-average defense to a below-average one.

Besides Barrett, the Buccaneers could also lose Carl Nassib and Ndamukong Suh in free agency. While Nassib started eight games and recorded six sacks, that’s generally replaceable production. Suh, who is nearing the end of his career, poses a more significant loss. The veteran’s performance helped Vita Vea develop into a prominent force after a lackluster rookie year in 2018.

Luckily, Tampa Bay can play with their $79.89 million in cap space. That’s more than enough money to sign a quarterback, Barrett and some role players. Besides quarterback and edge rusher, the team needs upgrades in the secondary and along the offensive line.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Friday that the Buccaneers will strongly consider using the franchise tag on Barrett if a long-term deal cannot be reached.

If the Buccaneers do land Barrett and make wise decisions during the remainder of the offseason, Tampa Bay could emerge as a Wild Card contender in 2020. However, that assumes Barrett can continue playing at an elite level.