You be the Bucs GM: Defensive line 
Clinton McDonald gave the Bucs everything they were looking for last season. Michael Johnson didn’t come close to living up to expectations. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF 
In three-time Pro Bowler Gerald McCoy, the Bucs appear set at under tackle for the forseeable future. Published: March 8, 2015 BY ROY CUMMINGSTribune staffThe NFL calendar officially flips to 2015 with the start of free agency. A three-day negotiating period began Saturday, allowing teams and prospective free agents to begin the matchmaking process. On Tuesday, contracts can be signed. With at least $33 million in available salary cap space, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are expected to address a number of needs as coach Lovie Smith and general manager Jason Licht look to fix the mistakes of the 2-14 season in 2014. For seven straight days, TBO.com will feature one position each day. We’ll provide analysis of the position and list the players to consider. So, here’s your chance, Bucs fans. Go to TBO.com and tell us what you would do.*****The Bucs used free agency to address their defensive line needs a year ago, but the results were mixed at best. While they hit on the signing of tackle Clinton McDonald, they missed badly on right defensive end Michael Johnson. As a result, the Bucs might be buyers again this year. The key to their strategy likely lies in their evaluation of Johnson’s four-sack season. If the Bucs believe it was largely the result of the string of nagging injuries Johnson suffered, they could stick with him for another year. If they think it was a foreshadowing of things to come, they’ll probably look for a replacement. Either way, the Bucs will look to add some new depth pieces, because four of the players they counted on to fill backup roles a year ago are free agents. The Bucs may have an interest in re-signing one or two of those guys, but won’t hesitate to move on if they like someone else better.BUCS UNDER CONTRACTDE T.J. Fatinikun — Began to take snaps away from Michael Johnson at right defensive end late last season.DE William Gholston — Has flashed elite skills at times, but very inconsistent.DE Michael Johnson — Bucs didn’t get their money’s worth from a four-year, $43.75 million deal.DT Matthew Masifilo — Will have to work hard just to earn a roster spotDT Gerald McCoy — Best the Bucs have had at under tackle since Warren Sapp. DT Clinton McDonald — Outstanding leader in the locker room and exceptional on the field.DE Jacquies Smith — Should start at left end after posting 6.5 sacks last year.NT Akeem Spence — Versatile enough to back up at defensive tackle and nost tackle, and start at the latter.DE George Uko — Spent most of 2014 on practice squad; has some upside.BUCS POTENTIAL FREE AGENTSDL Da’Quan Bowers — Former second-round pick is still looking to make his mark as a proDE Adrian Clayborn — Injuries have undermined the career of this former first-round choice.DE Larry English — Six-year veteran had one sack in 12 games, including one start.DE Lawrence Sidbury — Made his Bucs debut in the season finale against New Orleans.NFL POTENTIAL FREE AGENTSDE Trent Cole, Eagles — Has already visited the Bucs; still might have something left in the tank.DE Jerry Hughes, Bills — Proved with 9.5 sacks last year that he can play in a 4-3 scheme.DE/OLB Pernell McPhee, Ravens — Had a breakout year as an outside linebacker in 2014 but has experience as a 4-3 end.DT Ndamukong Suh — The Bucs are set at defensive tackle, but the best in the business is worth taking a look at.DE Greg Hardy, Panthers — Arguably the most talented pass rusher in free agency, but off-field issues are a concern.
