Let’s take a look at how the Bucs can strengthen their defense, particularly the front seven, with their first five picks in the NFL Draft. For more on the upcoming draft, check out our mock drafts for the Ravens and Jaguars.
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2016 NFL Draft Central: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Round 1: Pick #1 (9th overall) – DE Shaq Lawson – Clemson
NEEDS at DE: The Bucs finished 14th with 38 sacks last season. Their defense was solid, ranking 10th allowing 340.4 yards per game, but they struggled to keep their opponents from scoring. They ranked 26th, allowing 26.1 points per game. Having a solid pass rusher in the front seven could give the Bucs more opportunities for defensive stops.
STRENGTHS: Shaq Lawson has the leverage skills and hand placement that could solidify the Bucs’ defensive line. He has the ability to be an effective every-down defensive end at the pro level. He’ll likely be a strong pass rusher and a solid run stuffer.
Round 2: Pick #2 (39th overall) – LB Leonard Floyd – Georgia
NEEDS at LB: A good all-purpose outside linebacker to put opposite the terrific Lavonte David would do the Bucs some good. They need a player that can both rush the passer and drop back into coverage.
STRENGTHS: Leonard Floyd is the outside linebacker the Bucs need. He was one of the most athletic pass rushers in the SEC during his time with the Georgia Bulldogs. He played in several different positions on the Georgia defense in 2015, making him a very well-rounded player. He has played as both inside and outside linebackers, safety and defensive lineman. Floyd has the explosiveness to be an every-down linebacker. He has plenty of value as the 39th overall pick in the draft.
Round 3: Pick # 3 (74th overall) – DT Adolphus Washington – Ohio St.
NEEDS at DT: Spending their first two picks on defensive talent should prompt a switch over to a much-needed offensive tackle. But there seems to be no talent in that position this late into the draft. Instead, the Bucs could take advantage of the many defensive tackle spots in this NFL Draft.
STRENGTHS: Adolphus Washington could be the Bucs’ third–straight front seven player. He has the size (6-foot-3 and 301 pounds) to become a strong defensive tackle in the NFL. He is good with his hands and has quick feet for a man his size. He’s even bigger than the average 4-3 collegiate defensive tackle.
Round 4: Pick #4 (108th overall) – RB Keith Marshall – Georgia
NEEDS at RB: Doug Martin may be a Pro Bowl tailback, but the Bucs may need a player to keep their running game going. A change-of-pace running back will be a good pick for the Bucs’ 108th overall draft pick.
STRENGTHS: Keith Marshall was a former five-start recruit in 2012. He and Rams running back Todd Gurley formed quite a dynamic duo in Georgia that year. But Marshall didn’t live up to the hype due to his many injuries. When he’s healthy, he can be lightning fast to compliment Martin’s bruising style. It’s a bit of a gamble, but someone with the potential of Marshall could be a steal in the fourth round.
Round 5: Pick #5 (148th overall) – SS Jayron Kearse – Clemson
NEEDS at SS: The Bucs need to fill up a defensive backfield sorely lacking in talent. Tampa Bay is among the worst teams in the league when it comes to allowing big passing plays. They allowed 7.5 yards per pass attempt, 22nd in the NFL last season. A big and fast player is what they need to cap off their first five picks of the draft.
STRENGTHS: Jayron Kearse is a risk/reward type of prospect. He has the combination of speed and size that can’t be taught. He has the skills to be excellent in coverage, even in the NFL. But he’ll need to sharpen up his mental game and have the discipline to succeed in the pros.
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