The head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers traded Baker Mayfield.
The Houston Texans should chase linebacker Devin White, who will be a free agent in the offseason, according to Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report. Surprisingly, White did not suit up for the Green Bay Packers in Week 15, despite having already asked Tampa Bay for a trade.
In a piece published on December 26 about “prioritizing every team’s deficiencies following Week 16,” Ballentine stated, “It’s reasonable to say Devin White would be better off moving somewhere in 2024.” He informed the team he “couldn’t go” due to a foot issue; thus, he didn’t play in the Buccaneers’ Week 15 victory over the Green Bay Packers, according to head coach Todd Bowles. It’s important to keep in mind that he asked for a trade during the previous offseason.
Ballentine contended that White may sign with the Texans because of the team’s need for a linebacker and the fact that DeMeco Ryans, a former two-time Pro Bowl linebacker, coaches the team.
Ballentine added, “Maybe getting in touch with DeMeco Ryans could help White get his career back on track.” “Texans linebacker Blake Cashman is scheduled to enter the free agent market. He’s a productive blitzer.” Re-signing Cashman and signing White would provide the Texans with a formidable inside tandem.
Devin White Ends Debate About Absence From Packers Game
White said that he was missing the game against the Packers because of a foot issue. Nonetheless, White participated fully in practice sessions prior to the game, and a Tampa Bay Times report by Rick Stroud suggested there was more behind White’s choice to sit.
“After realizing that the team was going to start K.J. Britt against the Packers, linebacker Devin White informed the Bucs he ‘couldn’t go’ before Sunday’s game,” Stupid wrote on December 17.
White, however, denied the rumor that he “left” his squad.
White reportedly added, “I’ve just been reading a lot of stuff claiming, like, that I quit on my team,” as reported by ESPN’s Jenna Laine on December 20. “I don’t know how I was able to do that when coach [Todd] Bowles and I made the choice to take a break so that I could support my team on a personal level. Furthermore, I have visited the building even when I haven’t been playing. I’ve only been there to help them. .. I’ll never give up on my group.
Devin White Has Had Difficulties in the 2023 Season
Arguably, White’s most challenging season to date has been this one. He has had difficulty on the field in 2023, despite having just expressed regret for his trade request made during the offseason.White’s season defensive grade is a pitiful 46.7, and his run defense grade is 34.6, according to Pro Football Focus.
Although those grades are among the lowest in the NFL, they are actually comparable to some of the numbers he has posted throughout his career. His run and defensive grades rank third out of all linebackers who have played at least 300 snaps.
Having said that, White leads the team in tackles and has started 73 of his 74 career games since the 2019 campaign. In addition, he was selected for the All-Pro team, a Pro Bowler, and a past Super Bowl champion. As stated differently, there is going to be a demand for white.
As he enters the final year of his rookie contract, White is making $11.7 million this season from his fifth-year option.
In the unlikely event that White and the Bucs decide to part ways, the Texans might become a landing destination.
