2021 NFL Draft: Buccaneers mock draft to repeat in the Super Bowl
By Rob Leeds
A depth pass-rusher for the Buccaneers
Shaka Toney, Edge, Penn State
The Buccaneers don’t need to spend a high-round pick on a pass-rusher this year. The main focus for the Bucs is keeping Shaquil Barrett and Jason Pierre-Paul on the roster for as long as possible, and a higher rookie may only take reps away from two of the better edge players in the NFL right now.
If the Bucs decide to target an edge on day one or day two, they should find someone who compliments Barrett and JPP, not one that replaces them. Shaka Toney would be an excellent addition to the established pair.
At 6’3” 238 pounds, Toney is a bit undersized to be a consistent option against most offensive linemen or tight ends. Toney has excellent speed and athleticism, but he will probably reach his full potential as a #3 in most defenses. If any coach could make the most of a skillset like this, it’s Todd Bowles.
Bowles tried to use various defensive concepts against the Chiefs, and Jason Pierre-Paul even lined up on the inside from time to time in some of the even fronts. Toney would excel on the outside of JPP or anyone else, and the Bucs could steal him in the fourth round.
In addition to his ability as a pass-rusher, Toney also has the build to drop into coverage better than JPP or Shaquil Barrett. Pierre-Paul had two interceptions this year alone, and Toney could be a much more significant threat in that role using his speed alone.