5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Players Who Should See Their Roles Expand in 2015

After an offseason filled with hopeful expectations and a fresh culture change, Lovie Smith's first year as the Bucs' head coach fell flatter than Josh McCown after getting pancaked by Ndamukong Suh.

But despite last year's 2-14 finish, the Bucs had quite a few silver linings that should get fans excited for the 2015 season, in addition to the team having the top overall pick in this year's draft.

Mike Evans was obviously a huge success in his rookie season, but there are other young players who should see an increase in their impact in 2015. From injury-riddled rookies to waiver-wire wonders, Bucs fans have more talent to be excited about this year than some may believe.

Who are five Bucs who should see a big jump in their ability to contribute in 2015? Here's my take.

S Bradley McDougald

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Another position that saw better production from a diamond in the rough than a big-money free agent, McDougald proved himself to be one of the most pleasant surprises of the 2014 season for the Bucs.

The former Kansas Jayhawk made five starts late in the year for Tampa Bay and made the most of them, showing a knack for making big plays, both in coverage and in the box against the run. McDougald ended the season with 50 total tackles, seven pass deflections and one interception.

The Bucs re-signed Major Wright and added Chris Conte in free agency. Dashon Goldson remains on the roster despite his high cap number and rather disappointing performance over the past couple of seasons. I expect McDougald to rise above the rest of his position group and establish himself as the Bucs' best safety in 2015.

DE Jacquies Smith

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Starving for a dynamic pass-rusher, Tampa Bay found its most effective one down the stretch in a rather unlikely place—the form of waiver-wire pick up.

Smith was a terror over the final eight games of the season, racking up 6.5 sacks and giving the Bucs' front four the boost they were expecting to get from high-priced free agent Michael Johnson. Johnson was cut earlier this offseason, leaving the Bucs even thinner at defensive end and making it a near certainty Smith will be counted on in an even bigger role in 2015.

Tampa Bay is expected to spend an early draft pick on a pass-rusher, but fans should expect another big year from Smith, who could very well lead the team in sacks this season.

RB Charles Sims

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Many fans were shocked when the Bucs drafted Sims in the third round of the 2014 draft, considering the team's depth at running back and more pressing needs on the offensive line.

Though he spent the first half of the regular season on injured reserve following ankle surgery, Sims showed glimpses of his special skill set over the Bucs' final eight games.

Sims has the potential to be a legitimate three-down back for the Bucs, excelling as a receiver just as much as a runner. Spending time at both Houston and West Virginia, Sims ended his collegiate career with more than 200 receptions.

Tampa Bay's poor offensive line play contributed heavily to Sims' 2.8 average per rushing attempt, but the rookie also added 190 yards on 19 receptions. If the Bucs can improve their offensive line this offseason, I wouldn't be shocked to see Sims earn the lion's share of the touches in 2015, even if Doug Martin remains on the roster.

TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins

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The most highly drafted tight end in franchise history, Seferian-Jenkins showed flashes of the playmaking ability that made him a star at Washington. However, nagging injuries that started in training camp kept him from making a sizable impact as a rookie.

The former Husky made nine starts in 2014, catching 21 passes for 221 yards and a pair of touchdowns, but in addition to the injuries, Seferian-Jenkins was held back by an offense without a true coordinator.

Heading into 2015, "ASJ" should benefit from a clean bill of health, a full offseason in an NFL program and stability at offensive coordinator. All these factors point to a breakout season for the sophomore pass-catcher.

G Kadeem Edwards

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Right guard currently looks like one of the Bucs' biggest needs on paper, but they could have the answer already on the roster in Edwards, who was selected in the fifth round of last year's draft.

A native of Sanford, Florida, Edwards was hampered by an ankle injury during his rookie season in Tampa Bay. The injury kept him from taking a full swing at the starting right guard spot, where the Bucs struggled to find effective play all season.

A raw prospect, Edwards started 41 of his 45 career games at Tennessee State, dominating FCS competition with his combination of athleticism and power.

With so many other pressing needs across the roster, it wouldn't be a shock to see Edwards be given a chance to win the starting right guard spot in 2015. If he's fully healthy, he could develop into a needed upgrade at the position this season and beyond.