From Tigers to the Buccaneers: The story of a brewing star
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers knew they were getting a leader when selecting Devin White with the fifth overall pick; he is now beginning to flourish.
As the fifth pick in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Devin White was expected the be not only a powerhouse at the linebacker position, but a leader too. The Bucs knew they were lacking in leadership on defense, and bringing in the star from LSU was exactly the jolt this Bucs defense needed.
And then the injury. White was injured against the Carolina Panthers on Thursday Night football of week two, unfortunately delaying his true start as a linebacker after he had played through a sickness the week before.
However, he was able to get back on October 13 against the Panthers again, and in spite of the 36-27 loss, White was still able to have a decent comeback, registering eight tackles. But it’s more than just the stats for White. His presence on the field is definitely what was needed for a struggling Bucs’ defense.
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The Titans and Seahawks games were both close, and a few defensive stops could’ve saved the games, which will come as a learning curve for White and this defense, but there was still a lot of work that was needed.
And then there was the Cardinals game just a day ago. Finally the wheels started turning and defensive production could begin for White and the defense. Although 27 points were allowed, the defensive stops the Buccaneers strung together, especially at the end of the game, had to be conducted through White’s new leadership. From now on, Arians should definitely trust White to be the captain of this defense, as it’s moments like that final drive where a last stop is all that’s needed to pull out a win.
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Devin White was phenomenal at LSU, and for him to truly shine, his leadership skills at Linebacker have to be even more exemplified under Arians for him to show his full potential. But after the Cardinals win, it looks like some of those traits are beginning to flourish.