The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a number of needs that need to be addressed this offseason, and somewhere down that list you may find running back. While the Bucs got strong production out of second-year back Ronald Jones last season, the team is still looking for that backfield threat that can help put this offense over the top.
While one mock draft has the Bucs taking Georgia running back D’Andre Swift at the 14th spot to address their running back issues, NFL writer Jeremy Fowler thinks the Bucs and Arizona Cardinals could both benefit by working out a trade for running back David Johnson.
Per Fowler:
“The Cardinals trade David Johnson to the Buccaneers for a fourth-round pick. Johnson fell out of favor in Arizona but is 28 and not far removed from elite play. He has $10.2 million left in guarantees that the Bucs could easily roll into a reworked two-year deal, though Arizona would have to eat some dead-cap space after a trade. Tampa Bay has a long-standing need at the position, and Johnson offers a solution.”
Arians coached Johnson during his time with the Cardinals. In 2016, Johnson had his best statistical season as a pro, rushing for 1,239 yards and 16 touchdowns to go along with 879 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns. Johnson would provide that immediate backfield threat the Bucs need to complete their offense. (Well, that and consistent quarterback play.)
Let’s hope this Fowler trade scenario has legs.
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