Injuries are an unfortunate reality in professional sports, especially when it comes to a physical game like football.
Being able to respond to injuries with players who can fill the role adequately enough can be the difference between making or missing the playoffs; winning a championship or going home empty-handed.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are no stranger to this reality, even during their most successful times. Most recently, star defensive lineman Vita Vea suffered a broken leg in Week 5 of the regular season, but the Bucs were able to hold things together long enough for Vea to rejoin the team for the NFC title game, and help them win the Super Bowl.
This year, the Bucs are already facing some serious injuries to key players, particularly Pro Bowl center Ryan Jensen.
John Spytek, the Bucs’ vice president of player personnel, spoke to the media Wednesday about the team’s process for making contingency plans for when injuries arise:
"I think that is something that is under-appreciated. You know there are going to be injuries. You can't predict when or where, but you better have a plan for how to fix it and fix it fast."
đŁď¸: VP of Player Personnel @jspytek42 pic.twitter.com/3hgx8fzlWg
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) August 24, 2022
It’s a team effort that requires deep research and tons of work from a team of scouts and decision-makers, but the Bucs have proven to be one of the NFL’s most talented front offices. They’ve built solid depth across the board at most positions, and aren’t afraid to make the move necessary to add the talent they need to stay in the title hunt.
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