Jason

Licht

It’s not exactly a vote of confidence for Ke’Shawn Vaughn heading into year three, as Licht also noted he’d done “a lot of homework” at running back. It’s hard to see any back outside of the first round dramatically impacting Fournette’s fantasy stock, but Tampa could very well try to find their back of the future in the later rounds.

The Glazer family also gifted coach Bruce Arians a pay raise onto his current deal. Licht initially had a club option available for 2023 but that will presumably be pushed down the road (or removed altogether) upon signing his extension. He’ll likely be tied to the organization even beyond Arians’ tenure, ensuring Licht is around for at least a decade-plus after joining the organization in 2014.

It includes an option for 2023. This lines Licht up with coach Bruce Arians’ contract. Licht has had some questionable drafts, but the Bucs have never lacked for talent under him. The new deal gives Licht’s some security in a walk year. Licht’s Tampa future is ultimately tied to Jameis Winston’s success.

Licht, 42, was a finalist for the job, along with Lionel Vital, Marc Ross, and Lake Dawson. He has a scouting background, which is something coach Lovie Smith desired in a new GM. Smith will have final say over the 53-man roster, but Licht was a key piece in Arizona’s front office and is a solid hire for the Bucs. He’ll reportedly have control of the draft in Tampa Bay and will make other personnel decisions. Licht was also a candidate in Miami, where he began his front-office career. The Dolphins remain the only organization without a GM.

Tampa Bay isn’t alone in wanting to move back. It’s far easier said than done because most teams want to keep their second- and third-round picks in what is perceived to be a draft class that lacks star talent but is thought to be extremely deep. Many teams in the second half of Round 1 will probably be working the phones on Thursday night trying to move back and stock picks.

It’s an extension simply not to have Licht in lame-duck status for 2018. The Bucs are going to need to perform better this season to save the jobs of both coach Dirk Koetter and Licht. Licht has had a mixed draft history to this point, hitting on guys like Mike Evans, Donovan Smith, and Ali Marpet while whiffing on Roberto Aguayo and some others. The jury remains out on Jameis Winston.