Buccaneers 2018 Off-Season Position Preview: Tight End

ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 22: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers runs with the ball during the second quarter of an NFL game against the Buffalo Bills on October 22, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 22: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers runs with the ball during the second quarter of an NFL game against the Buffalo Bills on October 22, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 3
Next

Potential Draft Targets

Now, for the record, I’d be extremely surprised to see the Buccaneers draft a tight end in any round. So, because of this, we’re going to look at two players who may be available as undrafted free-agents who may get brought in to rookie camp or even training camp.

Jordan Akins – Central Florida

As a former receiver, Akins has the potential to develop into a receiving threat within an NFL depth chart.

He appears comfortable as a tight end, and I wouldn’t expect to see him going back to the receiver position as a 237 lbs. player.

Still, his experience competing against more agile and athletic defensive backs should allow him to exploit some mismatches in the middle of the field against linebackers who underestimate his ability to get into the field of play.

Must Read: Bucs Fire Hayes

David Wells – San Diego State

Blocked for Rashaad Penny with the Aztecs. Not the most polished player, hence his late round – undrafted free-agent projection.

Still, his willingness to get dirty is going to make him attractive to someone, and it just may be the Bucs.

He’ll definitely start as a practice squad guy, but given a few years and an opportunity he could turn into a solid NFL special teams contributor with a contributing role on an offense.

Next: Searching for a Defensive End

Like the wide receiver position before this one, the Buccaneers really look to have all the answers they need within their grasp.

Drafting or looking outside the organization for added talent seems unlikely. Still, it’s important to keep all doors open, and I’m sure the franchise is doing the same.

What are your thoughts on the tight end position with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers? Are there other free-agents or draft prospects you have your eye one? Let me know in the comments or on social media to discuss.

David Harrison is one of the Buccaneers Co-Experts for The Pewter Plank. You can reach him about this or any other NFL topic on Facebook, or on Twitter.