Mock Draft Monday on a Buccaneers victory Monday
By Cory Kinnan
1.16 Lucas Niang, OT, TCU
The draft order has been updated on The Draft Network’s mock draft machine, and it now has the Buccaneers picking 16th overall. Halfway through the first round, offensive tackles Tristan Wirfs and Andrew Thomas were already gone, so in order to get the best tackle on the board, the Buccaneers were forced to reach a small amount to land TCU standout Lucas Niang.
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Listed at 6-7 and 328 pounds, Niang is a massive individual with enough experience at the college level to both stalwart any incoming pass rush, as well as start right away with a minimal learning curve from college to the pros. With Donovan Smith having guaranteed money running through next season, expect him to remain in the pewter and red; Niang would then start at right tackle for the Buccaneers.
A senior for the Horned Frogs, Niang enters as the third best tackle in this year’s draft class by many, including those over at The Draft Network. If the Buccaneers decide to part ways with the struggling Smith after his guarantees dry out in 2020, then Niang can transition to the left tackle spot in 2021.
The interior of the Bucs offensive line has looked solid over the past three weeks, so that does not remain an issue moving forward. Niang could give the Bucs a massive boost up front as they will look to replace Dotson at the end of his contract this season.