Rumors Indicate OJ Howard Could Be Dealt From Bucs in Potential Trade
By Chris Russo
OJ Howard hasn't seen many targets in 2019, failing to take the next step he was anticipated to make this year. And now it looks like the tight end's tenure in Tampa Bay could be coming to a quick end.
Reports say Howard's talent is a hot commodity on the market and that the Buccaneers could consider moving the 24-year-old tight end.
Could O.J. Howard be on the move? ? Potential trade involving the Bucs TE is one of the "hottest rumor[s]" among scouts, per @nfldraftscout pic.twitter.com/89Pdijhm2Y
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) October 13, 2019
Howard, in his third season out of Alabama, has yet to catch a touchdown pass this year. He's caught 11 receptions on just 14 targets, having played in all of five Tampa Bay's five games, though failing to get a single target in Week 2.
The fact that Tampa Bay's defense has been more impressive this year does not help the arguments against a potential trade.
Howard's biggest highlight this season might actually have come in a different sport, when he caught a foul ball during the ALDS at Tropicana Field.
Tropicana ? for the W !! https://t.co/KFVDcJUMS5
— OJ Howard 80 ™ (@TheRealOjHoward) October 9, 2019
To be fair, the Buccaneers have struggled as a whole this season after starting 2-3, despite an upset win against the Los Angeles Rams.
On top of that, Howard has to fight for targets with one of the league's best receivers in Mike Evans, and a breakout star this year in Chris Godwin. While Howard was expecting to be come an impact player in the Bucs offense, it looks like he's the odd man out.