No matter how the Tampa Bay Buccaneers fare in 2024, a defensive overhaul is inevitable in 2025.
Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder suggests veteran Detroit Lions defensive end John Cominsky as an affordable option to boost Tampa Bay’s run defense.
Cominsky, who signed a 2-year, $8.5 million deal with Detroit in March 2023, suffered a season-ending MCL tear during training camp on July 30, 2024.
“Greg Gaines and William Gholston are impending free agents, leaving Tampa Bay thin on the interior defensive line,” Holder noted. “While Calijah Kancey and Logan Hall excel at pass-rushing, both struggle against the run. Cominsky would be a solid replacement for Gaines and Gholston, providing strong run defense to complement Kancey and Hall.”
Cominsky’s Role in Lions’ Rebuilding Efforts
Cominsky’s health will need to be reassessed before signing a free-agent deal, but he’s expected to be ready by the 2025 season. His 2023 performance should attract offers.
Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 285 pounds, Cominsky was a 2019 fourth-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons out of Charleston. After three seasons in Atlanta, he was released and joined the Lions in May 2022.
In Detroit, Cominsky has thrived, recording 19 starts, 66 tackles, 20 QB hits, 7 tackles for loss, and 6.0 sacks over two seasons. His 11 starts in 2023 marked a career high as the Lions reached the NFC Championship Game for the first time since 1991.
Buccaneers’ Defensive Struggles in 2024
Tampa Bay’s defense has declined under head coach Todd Bowles, dropping from 10th in total defense in 2022 to 28th in 2024, surrendering 380.5 yards per game.
One bright spot has been run defense, where the Buccaneers rank 11th in the league, thanks to standout performances from interior linemen Vita Vea and Calijah Kancey.
If healthy, Cominsky would be a cost-effective addition, likely signing for around $2 million on a 1-year deal. With just $24.5 million in projected cap space for 2025, per Over the Cap, this move would allow the Buccaneers to focus on securing a top cornerback in free agency and rebuilding their defensive front through the draft.
“It wouldn’t be surprising if the Buccaneers use their first three draft picks on defensive players,” wrote Mike Luciano of The Pewter Plank on December 9. “Bowles’ failure to develop Logan Hall and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka has weakened the pass rush, and secondary depth remains a significant issue.”
