Breaking Down the D-Line

This season the Buccaneers defense returned to the monster that it once was. With a lot of young talent and a lot of veteran leadership, the Bucs defense was #2 in the league. Anchoring the defense were the tackles and ends up front. Let’s break down the 2007 Bucs Defensive Line: 

Defensive Line 

DE Kevin Carter- This veteran came over from Miami to add some much needed depth to the Buccaneers front line. Starting in 14 games while playing in all 16, Carter recorded 73 tackles, 3 sacks, and defended one pass. One of those 3 sacks was his 100th career. Having played in 208 straight games, Carter shows the durability needed to anchor a defensive line, one that has had problems with injuries in the past.
DE Gaines Adams- As the Bucs first selection in the 2007 draft, Gaines Adams had a lot to live up too. Following a slow start, Adams blew open the second half of the season, finishing with 55 tackles, 6 sacks, and 4 passes defended. His 6 sacks was second on the team. Playing both end positions throughout the year, Adams showed his stellar ability to play the run and the pass. With many years left ahead of him, Adams showed us that he can be a force to be reckoned with.
DE Greg White- A true feel good story for the Bucs, Greg White came out of the Arena Football League with little left to play for, and became one of the best defensive players on the team. He had 50 tackles, and led the team in sacks with 8. He also had 1 pass defended. Although he only started two games, he played in all 16, providing a vital role for the Bucs.
DT Jovan Haye- Starting every game this season, Haye had a wonderful year. He recorded 97 tackles, had 2 passes defended, and was tied for second on the team with 6 sacks. In only his second year, Haye showed the veteran leadership needed for the Buccaneers. He showed his durability, rarely missing a snap.
DT Chris Hovan- For the third straight season, Chris Hovan started every game. Although his numbers don’t stand out, Hovan had a marvelous year, recording 95 tackles, 1 and 1/2 sacks, and 2 passes defended. Hovan played the run very well this year, answering some questions about his ability to do so. In an amazing show of durability, Hovan has shown that he is valuable to the Bucs, as he hasn’t missed a game in a Bucs jersey.

Without a combination of young and old talent, this Bucs d-line is powerful and ready to go. They came to play every game, and with their young stars, they looked poised to do the same for many years to come.