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Bucs are still making a mistake in free agency

The Buccaneers have yet to address another crucial position on the defense.

NFL: Chicago Bears at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

That Tampa Bay Buccaneers knocked it out of the park with the trade for veteran defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul. That move addresses the need for upgrading the pass rush and stopping the run. They’ve done a great job with addressing it with the signings of Vinny Curry and Beau Allen, too. But is the team still neglecting another very important position on defense?

There were many assumptions that the Bucs would be targeting a top free agent cornerback during the free agency period. With fear of losing Brent Grimes, they were at least able to bring him back on a one-year deal. Vernon Hargreaves III will look to improve after a mediocre 2017 season and the team will be bring back Javien Elliott, who they like. However, there’s not much optimism outside of those three names.

There were some potential targets in free agency that have signed elsewhere like E.J. Gaines (Browns), Trumaine Johnson (Jets), and Malcolm Butler (Titans). Granted, we may never know if the front truly targeted these guys or others, but it sure would have been nice.

There are still some names available like Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. The rest of the names available may not provide an instant impact. And that’s not saying DRC will, it would just be nice to have a bit more to look forward to in the secondary.

Hargreaves can turn things around in his third season and Grimes will more than likely perform at a high level at 34 years old (35 once the season starts). There is a possibility they make additions to the position in the draft but that’s not guaranteed. At least in free agency you get someone that has played in the league and can be serviceable. However, with each passing week, chances dwindle.

Hey, Alterraun Verner is still available... anyone?