Tampa Bay Buccaneers select safety Mike Edwards with 99th pick

After already taking two defensive backs on day-two of the 2019 NFL Draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made it three by selecting Kentucky safety Mike Edwards.

With the 99th pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and their second pick in the third round, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select Mike Edwards, safety from Kentucky. Using all three of their day-two picks on defensive backs, the Buccaneers have completely overhauled their secondary.

During his four year career with the Wildcats, Edwards totaled ten interceptions and two defensive touchdowns. Showing the ability to stack the box, Edwards has neared 100 tackles in three straight seasons and recorded 21 tackles for loss throughout his collegiate career. Edwards has also forced two fumbles and defended 23 additional passing attempts.

At the combine, Mike Edwards measured in at 5’10 and 206 pounds, but did not test. At his pro day, however, the new Buccaneers’ safety ran a 4.5 second 40 yard dash. In addition, he hit 37 inches on his vertical jump and 9’8 feet on his broad jump. An above average athlete, Edwards now has a chance to compete for playing time in 2019.

In what has turned out to be a baffling second day of the draft for the Buccaneers, general manager Jason Licht must be on the hot seat as he has now selected seven defensive backs over the last four drafts in the first and second round, five over the last two years on day-two. With needs still on the defensive line and off the edge, the Buccaneers now have a crowded defensive back room while remaining bare on their front four.