The Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered the 2024 offseason with high expectations, basking in praise for their seemingly smart moves, including a strong draft class and several veteran signings that appeared to be no-brainers. One of the most talked-about moves was their trade of veteran cornerback Carlton Davis and two sixth-round picks to the Detroit Lions for a 2024 third-round pick, which the Bucs used to select University of Washington wide receiver Jalen McMillan.
However, as the 2024 season progresses, it’s clear that the Buccaneers may have lost this trade. Davis has been playing at a Pro Bowl level with the Lions, revitalizing his career on one of the NFL’s best teams. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers are struggling through their worst defensive season in years, with their pass defense being shredded week after week.
McMillan, the player the Bucs traded for, has also been largely ineffective. He’s battled injuries and has only played in five games, totaling 10 receptions for 109 yards and one touchdown.
Davis Shines with Lions, on Track for a Big Payday
Davis spent his first six seasons with the Buccaneers after being drafted in the second round (No. 63 overall) in the 2018 NFL Draft. He became a starter as a rookie and enjoyed a standout season in 2020, recording four interceptions as part of the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl-winning defense. He earned a lucrative three-year, $44.5 million contract extension in March 2022, but after the trade, Davis signed a one-year, $14.5 million deal with the Lions.
Injuries have been a recurring issue for Davis, as he’s never played a full season. He missed seven games in 2021, four games in 2022, and five games in 2023. However, 2024 has been a different story. Davis has played in all nine games for the Lions, who are 8-1 and aiming for their first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history. Their only loss this season came to the Buccaneers in Week 2.
Davis Keeps It Professional
When asked about facing his former team, Davis made it clear there were no hard feelings. “It’s not personal for me, at all. I could never get personal with these type of games, because it’s all business,” Davis told *Sports Illustrated* before the game. “I do have a lot of love for those guys over there, but on Sunday, it’s football, man. There’s no friends on the field, and there won’t be on Sunday.”
Buccaneers’ Defensive Struggles
While Davis has excelled in Detroit, the Buccaneers have been struggling defensively, particularly in the passing game. Heading into their Week 11 bye, Tampa Bay is on a four-game losing streak and sitting at 4-6. They rank 31st in team defense and have allowed 21 passing touchdowns in 10 games, placing them 30th in the league. With their defense underperforming, the Buccaneers’ decision to trade away Davis is looking worse with each passing week.
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