Mid-week mock draft for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Round 2, Pick 39: Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson

With rumors swirling around of a potential departure of Gerald McCoy from the Bucs via trade or being cut, Dexter Lawrence can be a day-one starter to help fill that potential void and prevent a loss of production. Lawrence has been a key cog in the Clemson defensive front that has dominated college football for the last three seasons.

Lawrence is a great run defender and someone who seems to always fill the gaps. While he is excellent in the run game, he has scouts and general managers wanting more from him as a pass rusher. However, allowing defensive coordinator Todd Bowles to get his hands on Lawrence would be a surefire way for the Bucs to get the best out of the big man from Clemson.

Lawrence was once looked at as a locked and loaded top-15 pick but has seen his stock fall a little lately as others on the defensive line have risen. It certainly does not help matters that he was suspended for the college football playoffs due to the use of performance enhancing drugs. Landing Lawrence, a day-one starter at the next level, in the second round would be a steal for general manager Jason Licht.