The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced Monday afternoon that the team is releasing defensive lineman Gerald McCoy. Rather than paying McCoy $13 million in 2019, the team decided to part ways with the former Pro-Bowler. ESPN’s NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported that the Buccaneers have searched for a trade partner for quite some time now. Unable to reach a deal with any teams, McCoy is now on the free agent market.
Bucs tried to find a trade partner for DT Gerald McCoy for the past two months, but when they couldn’t, the two sides mutually parted ways today, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 20, 2019
McCoy’s Career And Future
The Buccaneers selected Gerald McCoy with the third overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. The defensive tackle had a slow start to his career as he only played 19 games in his first two years in the NFL. McCoy then went on a Pro-Bowl streak, earning selections in each season from 2012 to 2017. The veteran also secured First-Team All-Pro recognition in 2013.
Over his nine seasons in the NFL, McCoy totaled 54.5 sacks and 296 combined tackles. In addition, the defensive lineman racked up 140 quarterback hits. For the 2018 season, McCoy seems to have declined in production, which may have led to his release. He collected 28 tackles and six sacks. Although he still showed to be a prominent pass rusher, his skills may be dwindling.
McCoy was set to earn $13 million in 2019. It is unlikely that any team will be willing to pay the 31-year-old that much coming off of a down year. But, there still seems to be a lot of interest being gathered for the former All-Pro.
Former Buccaneers’ DT Gerald McCoy wants to sign with a playoff contender, and of course make money. But he wants to win. Spots that would make sense include the Browns, the Patriots, the Chargers, the Jaguars, and the Cowboys amongst others.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 20, 2019
Although McCoy may not terrorize offensive lines as he much as he used to, he is still a veteran who knows the position well. With many teams in need of a big man in the trenches, McCoy could be signed very soon.
Featured Image Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
You can like The Game Haus on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more sports and esports articles from great TGH writers!