Despite the Week 1 loss, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' secondary was strong, holding the Bengals' talented weapons in check. Will Benjamin Morrison parlay this success into a long-term role?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defense played a solid game against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1, holding their high-octane offense in check and forcing Joe Burrow into an interception.
The secondary, which was one of the biggest question marks about Tampa's defense, played extremely well, holding star receiver Ja'Marr Chase to just two catches for 12 yards on four targets.
Unfortunately, second-year defensive back Jacob Parrish was injured mid-game and ruled out with a back sprain, but the Bucs' reserves answered the call.
Benjamin Morrison, who was taken before Parrish two drafts ago, entered the game and mad an immediate impact for head coach Todd Bowles' defensive unit.
The former Notre Dame standout recorded four tackles, a pass defensed, and a tackle for loss, displaying multiple facets of his game.
Following the loss, Bowles praised Morrison for his ability to stay ready, saying that he played a "heck of a game."
Going forward, Parrish's injury is minor, but could pave the way to Morrison working his way back into a significant role within the Bucs' secondary.
Morrison missed most of OTAs with a hamstring injury this offseason, which put him behind the curve.
Injuries have been a concern for Morrison throughout his career dating back to college, as he also missed time during his rookie offseason with shoulder issues.
When available, Morrison has produced, recording 26 total tackles, four passes defensed, and a fumble recovery in ten appearances as a rookie.
Towards the end of the season, Morrison began to look much more comfortable, finishing out the season with three performances of four or more tackles and recording a pass defensed in two of them.
The expectations surrounding Morrison heading into this season rose, with the second-year defensive back returning to health and Jamel Dean departing in free agency.
FOX Sports NFL Reporter Greg Auman listed Morrison as one of the ten most likely players to breakout in year 2 back in April, noting his availability as the biggest question mark.
Following an offseason of inconsistent health, Parrish beat out Morrison for the final starting spot, but Morrison remains a big part of Tampa's future.
Parrish serves as a nickel, utilizing his tackling ability and pursuit speed, while Morrison has been expected to take a big jump as a coverage corner playing on the outside.
Next week, the Bucs will play host to the Cleveland Browns, giving Morrison a good opportunity to continue his high level of play against a struggling and feuding offense.
