2017 NFL Mock Draft: Buccaneers Take Help Over the Top

Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the 2016 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the 2016 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 3, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights defensive back Saquan Hampton (9) tackles Washington Huskies ball carrier Budda Baker (32) during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Washington won 48-13. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights defensive back Saquan Hampton (9) tackles Washington Huskies ball carrier Budda Baker (32) during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Washington won 48-13. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /

Not very creative I know, but in this mock, the Buccaneers draft their safety of the future and possibly their nickel of today.

Budda Baker does it all. He can cover the top end of the secondary, tackle in the box and lineup with most tight ends with relative success.

In year one, if the team likes what they have at safety enough to roll with it, they can allow Baker to develop a bit as an understudy while he comes in to play nickel.

If one of their safeties goes down to injury, or if they simply like him better, then he could be an impact player as a rookie.

There’s no real rule to drafting, but it is a bit unorthodox to grab a secondary piece with the top pick two years in a row.

Still though, a duo of Vernon Hargreaves III and Baker could develop into the best safety/corner combination in the NFC South. Isn’t that an exciting thought for us as Bucs fans?

The Buccaneers have studs at every position group except safety and running back.

Tampa can solve half of this issue right here by taking the former Huskie playmaker.