2 of 5

Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Obviously, it's all a paper competition until the helmets start popping in September, but it's hard to argue any other team in the NFC South got better than the Bucs did this offseason.

Tampa Bay spent money much more wisely in free agency this year after being burned by some of the bigger names over the past few offseasons. Still, it was able to bring in quality role players at a good price and even improved at least one starting spot by replacing Mason Foster with Bruce Carter, who is a much better fit at middle linebacker in the Tampa 2 scheme.

In the draft, the Bucs scored a new franchise quarterback who could become the star the team has lacked at the position while bringing in a pair of offensive linemen who could end up starting right away.

Throw in a linebacker in Kwon Alexander who could push for the starting role on the strong side and two receivers—Kenny Bell and Kaelin Clay—who could make a significant impact on offense and special teams, and the Bucs are looking at quite a haul of rookies.

The New Orleans Saints traded away two of their most explosive offensive players in Jimmy Graham and Kenny Stills and didn't bring in a single playmaker in the passing game via the draft or free agency. Drew Brees has already started to show signs of being in the twilight of his career, and Marques Colston is right there with him in that column.

The Carolina Panthers spent their first-round pick on a linebacker despite having one of the league's best units already. Devin Funchess gives Cam Newton another big target to throw to, but he's still got plenty of development to go through as a receiver. Throw in a free-agent class that was less than thrilling, and Carolina's offseason doesn't move the needle much.

The Atlanta Falcons had one of the best drafts of any NFL team, adding plenty of talent and getting great value in the middle rounds. Vic Beasley is exactly the type of edge-rusher they needed, while the team's picks in Rounds 3-5—running back Tevin Coleman, defensive lineman Grady Jarrett and receiver Justin Hardy—should all outplay their draft position.

Their free-agent class left a bit to be desired, though, which could limit their ability to make a huge improvement this season.

The Bucs were smart in free agency, got their new quarterback, added an offensive coordinator with a proven record of success and added plenty of depth in free agency and the draft. In my book, they beat their division rivals in the "best offseason" competition.