Tampa Bay Buccaneers sign G Henry Lutovsky

Henry Lutovsky's three-year, $3.1M signing earns a C+ Contract Value Index (CVI), a middling verdict that reflects realistic value for depth reinforcement in the preseason window. At $1.04M AAV, this is a below-market guard contract — the kind of deal a team uses to add plug-and-play interior line depth without significant financial exposure. For a Buccaneers squad sitting at 8-9 and clinging to playoff position, Lutovsky represents low-risk roster filler rather than transformational value; the contract's structure allows Tampa Bay to walk away without dead-cap burden if the fit doesn't work. The CVI grade acknowledges that this is neither overpaying for production nor capturing steal-of-a-free-agent value — it's a straightforward, arms-length transaction calibrated to his market tier. With 98 days until the regular season and the team's defensive playoff window tightening, this move prioritizes depth continuity over upside, which is precisely what a borderline postseason contender should be doing in the preseason. The real test is whether Lutovsky can stabilize the interior line; if he doesn't, the modest cap hit makes this easy to reset.