Report: Buccaneers weighing QB options, including trading for Deshaun Watson, Russell Wilson

The Buccaneers have big plans at quarterback for 2022, even if Tom Brady doesn’t return. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, Tampa Bay could look towards star quarterbacks Deshaun Watson or Russell Wilson to replace the Seven-time Super Bowl champion.

“The Buccaneers are leaving the door open for Tom Brady in case the legendary quarterback changes his mind on retirement, and sources say they would do whatever is necessary for him to return — a possibility Brady himself isn’t completely ruling out,” revealed Rapoport and Pelissero. “If not, the Bucs have shifted their focus to other veteran QBs who could be available via trade.

“Sources say they’re doing extensive homework on Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson and are one of multiple teams expected to explore a potential trade for Russell Wilson, though the Seahawks have given no indication they’ll deal him.”

Evidently, the Buccaneers aren’t pigeonholing themselves into begging Brady to return. Instead, they’re doing their homework on multiple options, including some big swings. It’s obvious the Buccaneers are in win-now mode, and not looking to rebuild — regardless of Brady’s decision.

Still, both Watson and Wilson will cost Tampa Bay dearly. The quarterbacks won’t come cheap, but the hole at the position for the Buccaneers is gaping. If they want to compete next season, a league-changing trade may be the way to do it.

Additionally, NFL Network reports that both Watson and Wilson have a no-trade clause in their contracts. Not only will the Buccaneers have to come up with a sweet deal, they’ll have to prove their desirability.

Nevertheless, Russell Wilson, Deshaun Watson and Tom Brady — the Buccaneers quarterback decision will have plenty of eyes on it throughout the offseason.

Report: Buccaneers not closing the door on Brady return

All 32 teams in the NFL were stunned when Tom Brady announced his retirement. However, only one team has to replace him — and it’s a tall task for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Multiple options are being considered. Still, Brady is the type of quarterback that’s impossible to replicate. As Super Bowl Sunday dawns on the league, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero provided an update on the future of the Buccaneers — and Brady.

“The Buccaneers are leaving the door open for Tom Brady in case the legendary quarterback changes his mind on retirement, and sources say they would do whatever is necessary for him to return — a possibility Brady himself isn’t completely ruling out,” reported Rapoport and Pelissero.

After all the fanfare and everything that surrounded Brady’s announcement, it’d be shocking to see him come out of retirement. Still, the Seven-time Super Bow champion knows he can still play with the best. To illustrate, he finished second in MVP voting for the 2021-22 season.

At the least, it’s evident the rumors surrounding Tom Brady returning to the NFL are already starting. Time will tell if one of the greatest competitors of all time is able to keep the cleats hung up.