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Five Bold Buccaneers’ Predictions for the Upcoming Draft

By Alan Schechter

Feb 18, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht speaks at a press conference during the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 18, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht speaks at a press conference during the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 17, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) prior to the snap in the second half against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome. The Rams won 31-23. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 17, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) prior to the snap in the second half against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome. The Rams won 31-23. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

The Bucs will Draft a WR on Day Two

The team needs speed.  Mike Evans is terrific, and should have a big year three, but he can’t do it on his own.  He needs help.  Vincent Jackson will be back for 2016, but at 33 years old, he is no spring chicken.  He won’t be around forever.  They need a player that can take the top off of a defense, and open thing up in the short to intermediate game, as well as keep players out of the box and Doug Martin’s way.

In a class that is not the best in recent memory, look for the Bucs to address this need on day two.  It wouldn’t be a total surprise to me if they made the choice in round one, especially if they decide to trade down.  Ultimately, however, I believe they will decide that edge rusher is more important and that will move the wide receiver position to day two.

Sterling Shepard may be a name to keep and eye on, Bucs’ fans.  His draft profile compares him favorably to Tyler Lockett, which is a great start.  Add 1,288 yards and 11 touchdowns last year and he would be an excellent fit.  His 4.48 forty yard dash time doesn’t hurt either.  Keep an eye on him Friday night.

Another guy may go in the first round, but with a 4.32 forty yard dash, Bucs’ fans will be licking their chops if Will Fuller somehow falls to day two.  He would be a guy that could walk in and take the top off of any NFL defense.

Next: Prediction Number Four

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