The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ struggles in 2024 can be traced beyond injuries, as a major issue lies with their defense particularly their secondary. Despite being a team built on defensive strength in previous seasons, their backfield has been porous, allowing even average quarterbacks to shine against them. This vulnerability has been a primary reason for their disappointing performance this year.
As the Buccaneers look to address their defensive woes, improving their secondary will likely be a priority in the offseason. Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder has suggested that Tampa Bay could target Kristian Fulton, currently with the Los Angeles Chargers, in free agency. Fulton, a skilled cornerback with experience as a starter, could provide the Buccaneers with a much-needed upgrade in their defensive backfield.
Adding Fulton could bring stability and reliability to a secondary that has struggled with coverage and consistency. This move, combined with potential coaching adjustments and player development, might help the Buccaneers regain their defensive identity in 2025.
In the post-Tom Brady era, Tampa Bay Buccaneers GM Jason Licht has been commended for his ability to balance veteran talent with the development of young players. According to Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder, this focus on youth is likely to influence Tampa Bay’s offseason strategy. Holder specifically highlights Chargers cornerback Kristian Fulton as a prime free-agent target, noting that Fulton is performing exceptionally well this season under head coach Jim Harbaugh’s system.
Fulton, who won’t turn 27 until September 2025, represents a blend of youth and experience that aligns with Licht’s approach. His strong season in Los Angeles has likely elevated his market value, but his age and current performance make him an appealing option for a Buccaneers defense in desperate need of improvement, particularly in the secondary.
Adding Fulton could address key deficiencies in Tampa Bay’s defensive backfield while also contributing to their long-term plans to remain competitive in the NFC South.
Fulton’s Career Resurgence Under Harbaugh
Kristian Fulton’s journey to becoming a sought-after free agent in 2024 reflects his resilience and growth as a cornerback. Drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft (No. 61 overall), Fulton played a significant role in LSU’s 2019 national championship team, alongside future NFL stars like Joe Burrow, Justin Jefferson, and Ja’Marr Chase.
During his four seasons with the Titans, Fulton became a full-time starter when healthy, logging 44 starts in 50 career games. However, injuries were a significant challenge, as he missed 25 games due to various issues. Despite this, his talent was evident when on the field, showcasing the ability to lock down receivers and contribute meaningfully.
In 2024, Fulton signed a one-year, $3.125 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers and has thrived under new head coach Jim Harbaugh. Although he missed two games with a hamstring injury, his performance has been impressive in his seven starts. Fulton currently holds a 77.4 grade from PFF, with 18 tackles, six pass deflections, and one interception. His contributions have highlighted his ability to bounce back and reinforce his value as a starting cornerback.
Heading into free agency, Fulton’s age (he turns 27 in September 2025) and demonstrated upside make him an attractive option for teams like the Buccaneers. If Tampa Bay can address their secondary needs by adding a player of his caliber, it could significantly bolster their defense moving forward.
Buccaneers Traded Away Best Cornerback on Roster
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ struggles in 2024 highlight the consequences of their offseason moves, particularly in the secondary. The decision to trade veteran cornerback Carlton Davis to the Detroit Lions has had ripple effects. Davis, now performing at a Pro Bowl level and thriving with the NFL’s hottest team, has left a glaring void in Tampa Bay’s defensive backfield. In return, the Bucs acquired a third-round pick, which they used to draft wide receiver Jalen McMillan from the University of Washington. While McMillan shows potential, the move has not alleviated the team’s defensive woes.
The Buccaneers’ secondary has been among the league’s worst, ranking 30th in team defense and 30th in passing defense. This poor performance has contributed to a disappointing 4-6 record, including a four-game losing streak. The trade of Davis, coupled with injuries to key players, has exacerbated the issues, leaving a defense that once thrived as one of the league’s best scrambling to find answers.
Meanwhile, the Bucs invested heavily in their secondary by signing safety Antoine Winfield Jr. to a four-year, $84.1 million extension, a move meant to anchor the defensive unit. While Winfield has delivered All-Pro-caliber play, the lack of stability at cornerback has undermined the secondary as a whole.
With back-to-back road games against the New York Giants and Carolina Panthers, both must-wins to keep playoff hopes alive, the Buccaneers face a steep climb. If they fail to address their defensive issues, this season could mark the end of their streak of consecutive playoff appearances.
