2. The drafting of Devin White
After the release of McCoy, the Buccaneers need someone to step up as the leader of their defense, and it appears the role is already being filled. 2019 fifth overall pick in the draft Devin White was known for his leadership skills at Louisiana State, and those are already translating to Tampa Bay.
An athletic freak, White has the speed to fly all over the field, and while he will need to work heavily on gap discipline, he perfectly fits the mold of a middle linebacker in the modern NFL which is focused on defending the pass. In Bowles’ 3-4 defense, White will get the opportunity to play in the middle of the defense with veteran Lavonte David.
In a division with Alvin Kamara, Devonta Freeman, and Christian McCaffrey, having a linebacker who can get to the edge quickly is a necessity. While it is hard for linebackers to win Rookie of the Year, it will not be a shock to see White hit triple digits in tackles and get his hands on his fair share of passes as well.
Needing a new face of the defense, adding White to the defensive via the first round of this year’s draft was a necessary move by the Buccaneers. Because of the speed and athleticism of the tight ends and running backs in the NFC South, adding White ranks as the runner-up of moves made this offseason.