The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' preseason opener against the New York Jets will be all about the next wave of defenders. Friday night provides rookies, young players, and depth pieces their first opportunity to make an impression in live game action. Several players who have stood out during training camp will now have to prove they can carry that success into a game.
1. Can Rueben Bain Jr. continue creating pressure?
Bain has already made his presence felt throughout training camp, including a would-be sack on the first day. The first-round pick won't have the luxury of simply relying on his athleticism in his preseason debut. Tampa Bay will want to see how quickly he diagnoses plays, handles blocks, and gets after the quarterback.
2. Does Josiah Trotter Jr. keep making plays?
Trotter has been one of the most impressive rookies on defense, recording
back-to-back tackles for loss during the team's first padded practice, and has taken off ever since. His speed and downhill physicality have stood out, and the Jets game will provide his first opportunity to showcase those traits against another team. If Trotter continues playing fast, he could quickly strengthen his case for a significant role.
3. Can David Walker turn camp production into game production?
Walker has been one of Tampa Bay's biggest surprises after missing his entire rookie season with a torn ACL. He has consistently found ways into the backfield with 9 would-be sacks through 9 practices. Now the Buccaneers get to see how that explosiveness translates when the quarterback is actually trying to escape him.
4. Which young cornerback steps forward?
The cornerback competition remains wide open, and several young players have opportunities to make an impression. Ayden Garnes has already made himself noticed after grabbing an interception while receiving first-team reps with Benjamin Morrison sidelined. Keionte Scott also brings versatility to the secondary after making plays throughout camp. A strong performance from either player could go a long way toward earning more opportunities.
5. Which depth players force their way into the rotation?
Beyond the rookies, players such as Chris Braswell, J.J. Roberts, and other young defenders have an opportunity to show the coaching staff they deserve snaps. Todd Bowles will get an extended look at the players behind them. For those competing for roster spots, consistency may matter just as much as splash plays.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 5 keys for the Bucs' defense in preseason opener against Jets
