2016 NFL Draft, Round Two: Five Players the Buccaneers Could Select
Kevin Dodd, Defensive End, Clemson
Dodd is lost in the background a bit with teammate Shaq Lawson being one of the highest rated defensive linemen in this year’s draft class. However, Dodd’s talents stand on their own, and make him a very respectable prospect for any team in need of good play on the defensive end.
While Clemson eventually lost in the National Championship game to Alabama, Dodd turned his best game of his career, getting to the quarterback three times and racking up seven tackles. On the year, Dodd posted 12 sacks and 61 tackles, including 7.5 sacks over the final five games of the year.
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The Bucs need help at the defensive end position. With Jacquies Smith looking like a potential star who just can’t stay healthy, and William Gholston flashing talent in between frustrating play and even more frustrating penalties, there are just no solid long-term answers currently available on the current roster. Adding Dodd here makes sense, and if Smith can stay healthy, the two would make a very formidable pairing. If Smith can’t stay healthy, Gholston and Dodd would be an upgrade over what the Bucs had for most of last season, and perhaps the off-season and another training camp could find the focus of Gholston being more about his play than his penalties.
If Dodd is available, the Buccaneers will have to take a good hard look at him, especially if they draft a defensive back with the 39th overall pick.
Next: Will Fuller