When a team is 2-4 and a long shot to make the playoffs, it sometimes becomes a seller’s market for that struggling franchise. In the case of the Buccaneers – according to Albert Breer – Tampa Bay shot down an inquiry from the New England Patriots about trading for tight end O.J. Howard.

“The Patriots’ decision to bring Benjamin Watson back after Matt LaCosse went to IR only further illustrates the team’s problems at Rob Gronkowski’s old spot. Eight days until the trade deadline. New England already asked, and was told no on, Buccaneers tight end OJ Howard. I’d expect they’ll be turning over rocks this week at the position.”

While most aren’t expecting the Buccaneers to reach the postseason, the team clearly hasn’t given up on the 2019 season and beyond, as they plan on keeping Howard for now.

Howard is an exceptional talent and even though his play and production haven’t been what fans or maybe even the team expected through six games, by rejecting the Patriots inquiry, the Buccaneers still firmly believe Howard is part of the team’s future success.