Buccaneers 2017 NFL Draft: Evaluating the Last Five Picks at Number 84

2013: Shawn Williams

Once again, the position is used somewhere the Bucs need help in 2017.

The Bengals needed help in the defensive secondary after the 2012 season. That year, they finished 26th in the NFL in pass defense. In came Shawn Williams, he led the draft class at his position in the 40 yard dash (4.46 seconds) and the bench press (25 reps). Here is some analysis from his draft profile:

"Williams joined Bacarri Rambo as part of duo of NFL-caliber safeties lining up for the Bulldogs in 2012. He combines a thick build, fiery attitude, and very good athleticism to be an intimidator over the middle and in the run game. He intercepted four passes as a junior, but did not record a single interception as a senior. How much range he has in addition to questions about how he can handle slot receivers and tight ends will likely see him slide some on draft day. Still, Williams could potentially see himself as a future starting strong safety."

Slide he did, as the Bengals chose him in the third round, with the 84th pick overall.

It was an uphill climb for Williams, who was a complete backup in his first two seasons, then started four games in 2015, and then started 15 games in 2015. His first career interception came in 2015 in a win over Ben Roethlisberger and the Pittsburgh Steelers. That year he recorded five passes defended and two interceptions. He added 32 tackles as well.

As mentioned, Williams became a full-time starter last season, and he posted a career high 81 tackles. He added two interceptions and five more passes defended. All in all, he’s a guy that is coming into his own as a selection at number 84.