Buccaneers Draft 2017: Three Things To Know About Kendell Beckwith

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Oct 15, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Kendell Beckwith (52) and defensive end Tashawn Bower (46) tackle Southern Miss Golden Eagles running back George Payne (24) during the first half of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

2. He Reportedly Almost Entered The Draft Last Year

Following his junior season, Beckwith was reportedly “leaning” toward entering the NFL Draft. However, he decided to stay for his senior season at LSU, with many thinking he did so due to the arrival of defensive coordinator Dave Aranda. Whatever the reason was, it looked like Beckwith made the right choice until the injury set him back. In 10 games, he picked up 91 tackles (33 solo) with one sack and six tackles for loss. He also had four passes defended and a fumble recovery.

Of course, with the injury, it’s hard to say that he made the right choice in staying for his senior season. He had a breakout year as a junior, coming up with 84 tackles (50 solo), 3 1/2 sacks, 10 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles. His big year could’ve put him high on some draft boards around the NFL. However, he felt like he had “unfinished business” at LSU. That’s always great to hear, of course, because it shows the type of team guy he is. That’s something that will be good for the Bucs.

“Everything happens for a reason” is a phrase that gets thrown around all the time. But it’s hard not to feel like that may be the case with Beckwith. He unfortunately wasn’t rewarded with a national title or a higher draft standing as a result of returning to LSU, but he kept a great attitude about it all. Now, he’s a member of the Buccaneers and he has a chance to play alongside his old teammate Kwon Alexander in a defense that is on the rise.

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