Is 'Z' The Key?

As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare for the season, all eyes are on cornerback Zyon McCollum , whom ESPN analyst Ben Solak has named the team's “X-Factor.” With questions surrounding several areas of the team, McCollum’s performance may be the most critical in determining the Buccaneers' defensive success this year.

While a lot of the focus will be on quarterback Baker Mayfield and the rookie center Graham Barton on the offensive side, the defensive outlook places significant weight on McCollum. The young cornerback, drafted in the fifth round in 2022, now steps into a crucial role after the departure of longtime starter Carlton Davis III, who was traded earlier this year. McCollum’s versatility has been a strength—playing multiple positions across the secondary last season—but now he faces the challenge of solidifying his role as a full-time outside cornerback.

Ben Solak from ESPN highlighted McCollum's potential impact, noting that while there is confidence in other areas of the defense, McCollum’s performance remains uncertain.

“McCollum has the size and explosiveness that made Davis successful, but his ability to perform in a permanent outside role will be tested early and often,” said Solak. With Davis no longer in the lineup, opposing offenses are likely to target McCollum to see if he can handle the pressure.

McCollum’s 2023 season was a mix of promise and inconsistency. He ranked 40th in EPA per coverage rep among 190 qualified defensive backs but also had the ninth-highest target rate, suggesting that opposing teams were keen to test his capabilities.

Adding depth at the position, the Bucs signed Bryce Hall in free agency, but the lack of competition between Hall and McCollum for the starting role indicates Tampa Bay's confidence in the young cornerback. The team's decision to trade Davis and move forward with McCollum further underscores the faith in his development.

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With the tools and opportunity in place, McCollum’s growth will be pivotal in determining how far the Buccaneers’ defense—and by extension, the team—can go. Should he rise to the challenge, McCollum could cement himself as a cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s secondary for years to come.

Tampa Bay will host the Washington Commanders on Sept. 8 to open their season , and the Buccaneers are favorites for the right reasons. McCollum's performance could set the tone for a strong start to the season.