2016 NFL Mock Draft: Buccaneers Get Their Pass Rusher
Noah Spence. 9. player. 48. <p>Tampa Bay is another team looking to add some missing pieces on the defensive side. New defensive coordinator Mike Smith has already committed to allowing veteran Alterraun Verner and cornerback Jonathan Banks another shot to prove they fit in Tampa. This news moves the defensive line straight to the forefront of team needs in this year’s draft.</p><div class=. DE. Eastern Kentucky
Specifically, the Buccaneers need help at the defensive end position. Currently, the Buccaneers have two defensive ends who project to start in 2016; William Gholston and Jacquies Smith. Smith has struggled with injuries recently, and Gholston with penalties. Both have produced in spurts, but neither has secured a solid grip on long-term employment next to Pro Bowl lineman Gerald McCoy.
Spence has long been known as an elite talent, and it was his off-field behavior which derailed his dreams early on. Entering collegiate football as one of Ohio State’s jewel recruits, Spence saw drug abuse and misconduct lead to his permanent exile from the Big Ten, and big-time college football.
Spence was sitting on the couch when his Buckeyes won their National Championship, and vowed then and there he would right the wrong he had brought into his life. With mentors like Pro Bowlers Gerald McCoy and Lavonte David, and a rookie example to follow in Kwon Alexander, Spence would have all the tools in place to ensure he has a successful transition, and could be a huge addition to the Buccaneers’ front four.
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9
Noah Spence
DE, Eastern Kentucky
Tampa Bay is another team looking to add some missing pieces on the defensive side. New defensive coordinator Mike Smith has already committed to allowing veteran Alterraun Verner and cornerback Jonathan Banks another shot to prove they fit in Tampa. This news moves the defensive line straight to the forefront of team needs in this year’s draft.
Specifically, the Buccaneers need help at the defensive end position. Currently, the Buccaneers have two defensive ends who project to start in 2016; William Gholston and Jacquies Smith. Smith has struggled with injuries recently, and Gholston with penalties. Both have produced in spurts, but neither has secured a solid grip on long-term employment next to Pro Bowl lineman Gerald McCoy.
Spence has long been known as an elite talent, and it was his off-field behavior which derailed his dreams early on. Entering collegiate football as one of Ohio State’s jewel recruits, Spence saw drug abuse and misconduct lead to his permanent exile from the Big Ten, and big-time college football.
Spence was sitting on the couch when his Buckeyes won their National Championship, and vowed then and there he would right the wrong he had brought into his life. With mentors like Pro Bowlers Gerald McCoy and Lavonte David, and a rookie example to follow in Kwon Alexander, Spence would have all the tools in place to ensure he has a successful transition, and could be a huge addition to the Buccaneers’ front four.
Next: 10. New York Giants