The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will soon be fully focused on contract negotiations for incoming free agents as well as negotiations to keep their own. Players such as Gerald McCoy and Lavonte David have been locked up well passed 2020. But, since the Bucs are roughly $30 million under the salary cap according to OverTheCap.com, they’ll have some space to sign free agents this off-season. Aside from that, it would be very wise for the franchise to keep the following players.

LB Kwon Alexander

After the 2018 season, Alexander’s rookie contract will expire and the Bucs will need to lock up their star middle linebacker to a new deal. Although snubbed for the Pro Bowl, Alexander led the NFL in solo tackles with 108. He also put on another impressive performance this season, so keeping him around should be one of the top priorities when the time comes, especially considering how he has embraced a leadership role in the defensive huddle.

Status: 2019 Free Agent

DE William Gholston

The Bucs cannot make another mistake like they did when they let defensive end Michael Bennett walk over to Seattle without matching a $4 mil per year contract back in 2013. Although Gholston has not excelled at rushing the passer, his run-stopping skills have been very efficient. He’s a big body guy who is still young enough (25) to be coached up on his pass-rushing skills. He was drafted as a project, and has now developed into a starter. Gholston will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason, and if the Bucs can retain him for a reasonable price, they absolutely should.

Status: 2017 Free Agent

S Keith Tandy

This season was a break-out year for the strong safety, as he was asked to come in and perform in place of injured Chris Conte. The Buccaneers are very thin in the secondary position, particularly at safety. Therefore, Tampa Bay would be wise to keep Tandy whether they sign or draft another player for that starting role. Tandy would be a valuable back-up, and is also known for his special teams play which makes him even more valuable.

Status: 2018 Free Agent

CB Brent Grimes

Grimes, who has played with both the Atlanta Falcons and the Miami Dolphins, was acquired by the Bucs this past off-season. He had four interceptions and made some game-changing break-ups against opposing wide receivers this season. Although Grimes will be 34 years old next season, he is an excellent predecessor for Vernon Hargreaves. If the organization finds him capable, Grimes should get a short-term contract.

Status: 2018 Free Agent