[](https://www.joebucsfan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/McCollumleft.png)Joe is very quietly getting bitter about the play of cornerback Zyon McCollum.
McCollum, 26, was handed a handsome contract extension/restructure over the summer, while fellow starting corner Jamel Dean got squeezed into a major pay cut. Joe understood the Bucs’ vision, reasoning and tactics, but McCollum hasn’t delivered.
McCollum is not a lockdown cornerback and has no interceptions and just four passes defenses this season; he had 17 last year.
The fourth-year corner has all the physical tools and what seems to be a great attitude. Perhaps he’s hit his ceiling? Joe hopes that’s not the case.
Last week, Todd Bowles described McCollum’s recent play as “average.” That’s nowhere near good enough.
The Bucs need an additional two or three guys on defense to step up tonight to have a shot at beating the Rams. Joe would put McCollum on that list, especially considering the Rams have stud receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.
Joe realizes teams seemingly have targeted McCollum less often this year, but Joe doesn’t suspect that will be the case tonight. There will be plays for McCollum to make (for a change).
Despite the new contract, Joe thinks McCollum has a lot to prove during the remainder of this season. If he can’t rise up, Joe thinks the Bucs should at least consider trading him in the offseason, especially if rookies Jacob Parrish and Benjamin Morrison look good come January.