The Tampa Bay Buccaneers spent a fifth round draft pick on a wide receiver. Not a big school guy, but considering the success the team has had with small school names, there’s optimism he’ll turn out to be a worthy investment.
Not many viewed the wide receiver position as one of need for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers heading into the 2018 NFL Draft, but there were some rumblings from sources like Pewter Report as we headed into the weekend.
Justin Watson is the receiver joining Tampa out of Pennsylvania. The Ivy League receiver amassed more than 1,000-yards in his final three seasons in college and has been known as one of FCS’ top players for the last few years.
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Lance Zierlein of NFL.com points to his size and character as two of his more evident features.
However, as expected from an FCS receiver, he has work to do before he becomes a fully legitimate NFL receiver.
Along with size, the 6’3″ receiver has potential to bring a strong combination of speed and strength to the field.
At his pro day, Watson ran around a 4.41 in the forty-yard dash, had 20 reps on the bench and posted a 40-inch vertical.
According to thedp.com, Watson had been training in Fort Lauderdale to prepare for the collegiate all-star games and the draft.
It’s evident there are plenty of raw intangibles, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him get some cracks at establishing a return man role.
He’ll be a name to watch heading into the rookie camp and training camp for sure. He may be a prime practice squad guy at first, but then we’ve seen the Tampa Bay Buccaneers give hard workers a shot before and walk away with a starter.
What do you think of the pick? We’ve got one more on the board right now, so come back later as we continue to wind down the 2018 NFL Draft!