Now that we are about halfway through the regular season, it is time to start considering which players are deserving of the Pro Bowl. For this series, we will look at the three most deserving candidates for each team. Obviously, some teams will have more or less than three players selected, but for simplicity purposes, we will discuss the top three.
Top Midseason Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pro Bowl Candidates
Mike Evans
Mike Evans is an elite wide receiver, and he has been a monster in the red zone this season. Entering week nine he was tied for the league lead with six receiving touchdowns. Quarterback Jameis Winston‘s favorite target, Evans is on pace to set career highs across the board. His best game to date came in week three against the Rams when he recorded 10 receptions on 14 targets for 132 yards and a touchdown. The third year wide out from Texas A&M will look to continue his success for the rest of the season. With no other weapons that have stood out thus far on offense, the targets will be there for Evans every week. It’s remarkable to think that Evans would be a starter for the NFC if their was a midseason game. Especially since Tampa Bay has already played the toughest portion of their schedule and had their bye week in week five.
Kwon Alexander
Kwon Alexander is a beast, it sounds even better when you say it out loud. Nonetheless, he has 66 total tackles through week eight. Alexander demolished the Atlanta Falcons in week one, compiling 17 total tackles and a sack. He also stood out on film in week three against Los Angeles. Alexander scored a touchdown on a 38-yard interception return in that game. With LaVonte David also lurking along the line backing core, it’s extremely difficult for opposing offensives to block both Alexander and David on every single run play. Playing in his second season out of LSU, Alexander has always had the instincts to play linebacker at a supremely high level. Now that he is beginning to see the fruits of his labor, he has officially begun making his mark on the NFC South. However, the Buccaneers could use even more production out of him if they want to make a legitimate playoff push.
Bryan Anger
Bryan Anger ranks among the top five in most punting categories, and he’s having a career year in Tampa Bay. His average punt goes for 46.6 yards, with a net average of 42.6 yards. Plus, he’s already dropped 16 punts inside the opponent’s 20-yard line. Playing in his fifth season out of California, Anger was actually drafted in the third round of the NFL draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2012. After being a Pro Bowl alternate his rookie season, Anger is on track to make the NFC roster this year. Hopefully, the offense doesn’t require Anger’s services as much in the second half of the season. However, he has proven to be very reliable and consistent at flipping the field for the Buccaneers.
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