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2017 NFL Mock Draft: Buccaneers at 19 and 31 Others

By David Harrison

Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 15, 2016; Hollywood, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive end Solomon Thomas poses during Pac-12 media day at Hollywood & Highland. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 15, 2016; Hollywood, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive end Solomon Thomas poses during Pac-12 media day at Hollywood & Highland. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

The Panthers dismantled the defense which helped them to the Super Bowl and found out the hard way that even Cam Newton couldn’t will them to wins.

I’m not sure Kelvin Benjamin will ever get back on track to where he was before his big injury, but the defense is hurting more than the offense is in Charlotte. Which is why the pick has to be Solomon Thomas from Stanford at number eight.

What Carolina’s defense lacked in 2016 Thomas has oozing out of him before he even steps on the field: versatility.

Must Read: Walking the Plank Debut!

This prospect can play inside or out and be effective. Matching him up with the right offensive lineman against opponents will be key, and if they get it right then the Stanford defender will become a quick fan-favorite.

After placing the franchise tag on Kawaan Short, I can only imagine how fun to see these two playing on the same line, and I still have high hopes for Vernon Butler too.

Of course, Bucs fans will hope he’s a bust, but Thomas has stud written all over him.

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