Buccaneers: Ray-Ray McCloud could be Jason Licht’s next find
The Buccaneers haven’t had the best luck drafting players coming out of Clemson, but Adam Humphries represents a find which could be repeated in 2018.
We all know the most pressing need for the Buccaneers this coming draft season won’t be at the wide receiver position.
Mike Evans and DeSean Jackson represent a solid pairing with the potential to become the best receiving duo in the NFL if they can get on the same page with their quarterback, Jameis Winston.
Adam Humphries has been a solid performer since signing with the team as an undrafted free-agent back in 2015.
Coming to the team by way of a 2017 third-round draft pick, Chris Godwin showed plenty in his rookie season including catching the game-winning touchdown against the New Orleans Saints in Week 17.
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So, the future looks good at receiver. But it doesn’t mean the team shouldn’t keep their eyes open for late round or undrafted potential to boost the camp competition and depth chart.
Jesus Wilson is the only other receiver on the Buccaneers roster currently who looks to have any real space left before he reaches his ceiling. And there are plenty of questions to be answered still about him.
Ray-Ray McCloud could present an option for Jason Licht come April at the 2018 NFL Draft.
The Clemson Tiger prospect is quick and showed solid hands this past week at the NFL Combine.
His versatility is what should attract him to the Bucs the most. In his final season with the Tigers, he recorded stats as a receiver, runner and a punt returner.
The last one could be the biggest draw. Humphries plays a good amount of snaps on offense. More than 62% of them in 2017 alone. Bringing in a young guy who can shoulder the punt return work and potentially develop into a regular contributor, would be a win all around.
One more additional plus which doesn’t play into evaluations, but is worth talking about, is the fact McCloud is a Tampa native who attended Sickles High School before leaving for Clemson.
As undrafted free-agents come, McCloud might have as much potential as any of them. His versatility along with his willingness to play wherever and however the team needs him to make him a valuable personality to have on any team.
With all the talk focused on day one and early-round picks, it’s important for Buccaneers fans especially to remember the value which can be found at or near the end of the NFL Draft.
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