K.J. Britt aiming to take the next step for the Buccaneers

After partially replacing Devin White in 2023, will Britt fully assume the mantle?

In Week 15 of the 2023 NFL season, the last straw finally snapped.

After weeks, and some could even argue years, of under-production and a generally poor attitude, the Buccaneers made the decision to bench former top 5 pick Devin White prior to the team’s critical contest against the Green Bay Packers.

It was a bold move, given White’s pedigree, head coach Todd Bowles’s noted admiration for him, and the relatively unproven depth behind him, but it’s clear between the on- and off-field drama that it was time to move on. In his stead, 2021 fifth-rounder K.J. Britt, who had played just 25 total games with no starts, got the nod.

Britt responded with a strong effort — 6 total tackles and a 76.6 grade from Pro Football Focus (fourth-best on the defense that week). The run defense notably improved that week and the rest of the season with Britt’s disciplined, thumping demeanor. He started the rest of the team’s games, as well as the two playoff contests.

The Auburn product finished 2023 with a very good 79.3 overall grade, compared to White’s abysmal 46.0 grade. Britt’s 72.0 run defense checked in at second on the team behind Lavonte David (75.0). David’s run defense chops are well-noted, and Britt’s impressive performance is further contextualized when looking at White’s dismal 31.4 run defense grade, as well as the latter’s 8.3% missed tackle rate — Britt’s was just 3.8%.

So, overall it’s hard to argue that’s White’s ejection and Britt’s installation was anything other than a tremendous upgrade. Britt’s coverage skills improving would be good to see, as he’s not exactly the most agile or instinctive in that area, but you’ll take the higher floor in other areas.

At the team’s most recent mini-camp practice, Britt showcased humility when talking about the overall situation and how he approached everything.

“I just went out there and played ball,” he said. “I didn’t let the game be too big. It’s big to everybody else, but when you’re lined up, you just play the game. I was prepping all week, moving like I need to move, so when I got out there it was kind of like a byproduct, just kind of flying around.

“I had games where I played, and I had games I didn’t play – I was cool with whatever. However the team needs me, that’s what I’m going to step up as. I’m not going to try to get too big and do whatever – however the team needs me, that’s what I’m going to do.”

Bowles effusively praised Britt’s character and leadership ability.

“I love his maturity,” Bowles said. “He’s grasping the mental part of the game and becoming the leader of that defense along with Lavonte [David] and ‘Win’ (Antoine Winfield Jr.) and Vita [Vea]. We’re kind of happy with where he’s progressing right now.”

Britt expressed his tenacious attitude in improving his game ahead of training camp and competing to maintain a starting job.

“It’s fun, just diving into the playbook,” he said. “Wanting to learn – that’s the main thing. I wanted to learn, I wanted to get better. I’m letting the byproduct of what I do out here spill over into what happens on Sundays.”

While players like Sir’Vocea Dennis and J.J. Russell will push Britt, and perhaps undrafted free agent Kalen DeLoach, Britt’s edge in experience, chemistry with the team, and positive momentum puts the team’s outlook at the position in a good spot.