5 bold predictions for Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020

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FanDuel NFL: TAMPA, FL – OCTOBER 21: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signals a first down after making a 24-yard reception during the third quarter against the Cleveland Browns on October 2, 2018 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers won 26-23 in overtime. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

2. O.J. Howard will double his catch total from 2019

People need to stop comparing Howard to Rob Gronkowski. He’s nowhere near the physical freak that Gronk was at his peak. With that being said, Howard does have Pro Bowl potential at the tight end position.

That’s why he and Brady will forge a productive connection early in their time together. Howard’s production will increase dramatically compared to his relatively pedestrian catch totals from his 2019 campaign.

If Howard can stay healthy, he should be able to double his catch total. That means he’ll end up with somewhere in the neighborhood of 70 catches on the season. Howard could put up 750 receiving yards with that kind of volume.

Howard’s role in the offense could be even bigger if no clear slot receiver emerges for Arians and the coaching staff. The former Alabama tight end could serve as the de facto No. 3 wide receiver in that circumstance. No matter what, Howard is primed for a big season due to Brady’s arrival.

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