TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 31: Wide receiver Chris Godwin of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates what would be the game-winning touchdown with quarterback Jameis Winston #3 and tight end Cameron Brate #84 during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints on December 31, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)

As OTAs wrap up, Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Cam Brate is excited about what he’s seen thus far from the offense.

One of the most reliable connections on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is that of quarterback Jameis Winston and tight end Cam Brate. You could make the argument that it’s the most proficient combo on the team, even over Winston and Mike Evans.

The production that the two have had together earned Brate a hefty extension this off-season, garnering excitement for what’s to come in the 2018 season and beyond.

As OTAs have come to a close and mini-camp is set to begin, we’re seeing the Bucs begin to take shape. No, they aren’t wearing pads or partaking in contact, but we are witnessing some key focus areas of development and improvement. Brate pointed out to the media one of the things he’s noticed thus far in practice;

“Speaking for the offense, we did get together a couple of times this offseason. It was definitely very organized compared to the past and that was spearheaded by Jameis [Winston]. That stuff, that goes such a long way, putting in time in the offseason, getting that head start on the spring training. I really think it has paid dividends so far. You guys aren’t out here every day but Jameis’ deep ball, I will say, looks pretty special so far this spring. That’s just a testament to him and the receivers getting together this offseason.”

For this offense to be a success, two key things need to improve from last year. For starters, the run game – which has been addressed in the form of a revamped offensive line and second round pick Ronald Jones. Second, the deep ball.

The addition of DeSean Jackson was supposed to play a big role in that last season and instead it became a play that was used far too often with little to no success.

With the offense working on timing together during the off-season, the timing should be better this year. Deep passes have never been Winston’s strong suit, but even a slight improvement in the area can pay huge dividends.

This may be typical player/coach speak or it may be the precursor to a very special offensive outburst for Winston and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. For the sake of the team and the fans, let’s hope it’s the latter.