Tampa Bay Buccaneers Mock Draft Roundup
By Ryan Doyle
Let’s take the first look at what Mock Drafts around the web think the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will do in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
With a new head coach and a tremendous staff in tow, it is now time to shift the focus to the 2019 offseason. When the NFL Draft begins on April 25, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will hold the fifth overall pick
Although the Draft is still months away, there are already plenty of mocks that have the Bucs addressing multiple needs at the top of the first round.
It may still be too early to pinpoint prospects that are likely to end up in Tampa Bay, but it is now clear what needs the team must address.
The defensive backfield still needs a ton of work despite general manager Jason Licht investing three draft selections in the unit last season. The offensive line also needs help, especially at the tackle position.
In the latest Pewter Plank Mock Draft, the Bucs grabbed Alabama’s Jonah Williams in the first round. Here’s a look at what other pundits think Tampa Bay will do when the Draft rolls around.
Charlie Campbell (WalterFootball.com): OT Jawaan Taylor (Florida)
"Taylor (6-5, 340) played right tackle for the Gators the past two years and impressed team evaluators. Sources love his size, movement skills, and strength. As Taylor gained experienced, he became more consistent. In the NFL, he could play left tackle or remain at right tackle. Multiple team sources have told me they think Taylor is the best offensive line prospect for the 2019 NFL Draft."
A surprising selection right off the bat. Florida’s Jawaan Taylor may be one of the top tackles in the Draft, but there hasn’t been much buzz surrounding him as a potential top-five pick.
Regardless, tackle is a significant position of need for the Buccaneers. Left tackle Donovan Smith is heading into free agency and right tackle Demar Dotson doesn’t have much left in the tank.