The unexpectedly steep learning curve for the Bucs defense seems to be personified by Mason Foster.

He’s a big part of that woeful, 31st-ranked Bucs pass defense, and former Bucs defensive end Steve White (1996-2001), a coaching intern this season under Lovie Smith, has seen enough of Foster.

White took to Twitter to break down the coach’s film of the Bucs-Falcons game yesterday, and among many takes, he was detailed and harsh on Foster.

Here’s the string:

Moving along, we need a MLB. And no its not because Foster isnt physically capable of being a “Tampa 2” MLB. Nah his problem is either — Stephen White (@sgw94) November 11, 2014

Between his ears or the person who is supposed to be teaching him his job. I just have never seen a MLB in this defense stop running down — Stephen White (@sgw94) November 11, 2014

The deep middle for no apparent reason as many times as Ive seen Foster do it already this season. Its like he refuses to believe the aim of — Stephen White (@sgw94) November 11, 2014

Tampa 2 is to force the offense to throw it short by covering deep. Julio Jones runs a deep dig and Im like ok Foster is about to pick that — Stephen White (@sgw94) November 11, 2014

Off because I saw him flip his hips and turn and drop in that direction deep. Then I just couldnt believe what I was seeing but just for

— Stephen White (@sgw94) November 11, 2014

Actually looked in JJ’s direction during his drop and so he had no idea how close he came to getting a pick. Instead it was a 22 yard gain — Stephen White (@sgw94) November 11, 2014

White’s a seasoned and astute football mind. But Joe doesn’t always agree with him. That written, Joe can’t disagree with much here. Foster has looked lost in coverage consistently.

And we all know Lovie needs a stout Mike linebacker in this defense.

Foster is in his fourth season. His rookie contract is about to end, and it’s hard to believe the Bucs will embrace his return.

The Bucs linebackers consistently rave about position coach Hardy Nickerson and his passion, intensity and knowledge. Are we to believe Nickerson isn’t teaching well? Or is Foster just not cut out for this defense? Joe suspects the Lovie will roll with the latter this offseason.