In preparation of Tampa Bay’s first preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Friday, the Bucs released their first official depth chart of the 2019 season on Tuesday.
While many positional battles will change as the preseason rolls along, the introductory depth chart should give a glimpse of how things are shaping up heading into Friday night’s match-up.
Some things of note within the depth chart mainly come on the defensive side of the ball, including Noah Spence being listed as a starting outside linebacker – along with Carl Nassib – above former Denver Bronco, Shaq Barrett.
With Lavonte David undergoing a minor surgery on his knee, Deone Bucannon slides into a starting role at interior linebacker alongside rookie Devin White while Kevin Minter and Devante Bond will serve as the second-string tandem.
At cornerback there isn’t a designation for the nickel corner spot, but Carlton Davis and Vernon Hargreaves III are listed as starters on the outside with Jamel Dean and Sean Murphy-Bunting behind them. Ryan Smith and M.J. Stewart, who is primarily expected to serve in a nickel role in addition to playing some safety, will be third-string.