Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Mock Draft:

ROUND 1:

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – DT John Jenkins, Georgia

About the Pick: John Jenkins is one of the better defensive tackles in this draft class. He’s a perfect fit as a nose tackle in either a 3-4 or 4-3 defense. Jenkins is a force in the middle and usually commands a double team. Even when double teamed he can usually push the pocket, and have an impact on the play. Jenkins does need to show more consistency, and the fact that he can hold up for a higher percentage of snaps at the next level.

Steve’s Take:  The Buccaneers could use a corner, but don’t be surprised if they look for value here. Jenkins has big time upside, and could be the final piece to an emerging top defensive line.

ROUND 2:

42. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – DE Brandon Jenkins, FSU

ROUND 3:

77. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – CB Will Davis, Utah State

ROUND 4:

108.Tampa Bay Buccaneers – CB Bennett Jackson, Notre Dame

120. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (via New England Patriots)- OG Omoregie Uzzi, Georgia Tech

ROUND 6:

170. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- CB Dwayne Gratz, UConn

Analysis:

On the surface it seems odd to draft a defensive tackle first given how well the rush defense was this year, but the idea of pairing Jenkins and Gerald McCoy may be too much for Tampa to pass up. That would allow them to control the interior line, and really push the pocket. Brandon Jenkins should be back fully healthy and give them some good defensive end depth and situational pass rushing ability, one thing that this front four lacked was getting after the quarterback. Later in the draft the Bucs can add some young corners to develop for the future.