With QB Jeff Garcia, LB Derrick Brooks, and CB Ronde Barber only having a couple seasons left in a Buccaneers jersey, we're clearly in a Win-Now position. There's very few mobile veteran QB's in the NFL that can step in and command a team like Jeff Garcia has thus far. I believe GM Bruce Allen has to pull a Blockbuster Trade and acquire a Top Flight Wide Receiver.
Arizona Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald fits that mold. Oh he's going to cost more than I'm sure the Glazers would like to spend (14.5 mil in '08 and 17.3 mil in '09), but he's also 24 years old, averages over 1,100 yards a season, and has proved to be durable over his short NFL career. Fitzgerald brings an excellent work ethic and character to the playing field. The bigger question might be what the Cardinals want for Larry and whether they're even interested in trading the phenom... My guess is they're not, but Allen has to turn over every stone. To be the best, you have to pay and acquire the best. The David Bostons, Jerramy Stevens, and Derrick Deeses of the world won't cut it.
There's been alot of talk about the Bucs potentially going after TE Jeremy Shockey. That the World Champion New York Giants were discussing trading or even cutting the guy. Giants GM Jerry Reese just about put that opportunity to bed in a story reported today by stating, "[Shockey] is our starting tight end" - Newsday. The more I think about it, I think acquiring a Tight End like Jeremy Shockey would go a long way for this football team. First of all, he demands the ball on the field; Alex Smith comes across as too passive on the field. We need somebody who is going to help QB Jeff Garcia and potentially light a fire under TE Alex Smith. Shockey runs his mouth an awful lot, but at least he backs it up on the field. I don't think there's a single Giants fan who would tell you Shockey isnt tough. The Falcons TE Alge Crumpler expressed his displeasure in Atlanta throughout the season last year. Allen should seek high and low for potential answers to our offensive ineptitude.
As a last resort, the NFL Draft provides a couple potential gems at Tight End if need be. Missouri's Martin Rucker is the real deal at 6'5 255lbs. USC's Fred Davis and Purdue's Dustin Keller are also good choices, though they lack the ideal size you would want for the position.
Our current collection of talent on offense will not get it done in terms of Super Bowl asperations. Hopefully Bruce Allen can get it done.