Are Bucs among teams most likely to end playoff droughts in 2019?

It’s been 11 seasons since the Bucs’ last playoff game, so they’re more than due for a return trip to the postseason.

Could it be this year?

Not likely, according to NFL.com’s ranking of teams most likely to end playoff droughts in 2019.

The Bucs rank seventh among the eight teams whose playoff absences extend to three or more seasons.

Concerns about the Bucs’ defense — particularly in light of Jason Pierre-Paul’s injury — Gerald McCoy’s uncertain status, and Jameis Winston’s inconsistency will be too much to overcome, Dan Hanzus writes.

“Jason Pierre-Paul’s neck injury — sustained in a single-car accident earlier this month — could have a huge ripple effect on a Buccaneers defense that feels extremely unsettled right now,” Hanzus writes. “Will Gerald McCoy remain on the trade block with JPP potentially facing an extended absence? Will McCoy be happy — and more importantly — productive? That’s just one of the challenges inherited by Bruce Arians, who came out of coaching retirement to put the Bucs back on the map. Arians’ biggest job will be unlocking the potential of quarterback Jameis Winston. DeSean Jackson is gone, but watch out for a breakout year from tight end O.J. Howard."

The Bucs last played in the NFC Wild-Card Game in 2007, losing 24-14 to the New York Giants.

The Cleveland Browns, who haven’t been to the playoffs in 16 seasons, top Hanzus’ list as the team most likely to end its drought this season.

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