Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 2019 7-round NFL mock draft (Volume III)

1.5: Rashan Gary DL Michigan

With the fifth pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select Rashan Gary, defensive lineman, Michigan.

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After landing Taylor and White in the previous two drafts, this edition, the Bucs select Gary, a former five star recruit and versatile defensive lineman from the University of Michigan. Gary’s name has been rising up big boards as of late, and this weekend at the Combine, he is expected to test off of the charts.

The Bucs pick a defensive lineman here even though it has been reported that the Buccaneers are expected to keep current defensive tackle Gerald McCoy, and drafting another defensive Vita Vea just one year ago. This is a deep class along the defensive line and Gary can play both on edge and as a three-tech, giving Todd Bowles a versatile weapon to use on his defensive.

During his three years at Michigan, Gary recorded 9.5 sacks and 23 tackles for loss playing both on the end of the line and as a three-tech. His lack of production may have been due to his usage and lack of a position as a Wolverine, but with the right defensive coordinator, Gary could become a big time playmaker. Needing another pass rusher, the Buccaneers take a chance on the high ceiling of Gary with the fifth pick in the draft.