2021 NFL Draft: Christian Barmore the favorite for the Buccaneers?
By Rob Leeds
Christian Barmore and the Buccaneers look like a match in the 2021 NFL Draft.
The Buccaneers don’t have any dire needs in the 2021 NFL Draft. They are free to go just about any direction they desire, and this freedom will offer up some opportunities at the end of the first round. Tampa could be the team to take a chance on Alabama IDL Christian Barmore.
Barmore is far from a transcendent defensive lineman now, but he is still the best in the class by a mile. From athletic testing to actual game film, Barmore was able to show out during his time at Alabama, and the Bucs getting him with the 32nd overall pick is still a great use of resources.
While his stats never jumped off the page during his two years on the field like most first-round picks, Barmore is a developmental option on the Buccaneers, which is exactly what he needs.
As a whole, this defensive class is extremely weak. The best few players on this side of the ball may not come until the teens, which is a testament to how bad the class is relative to a deep offensive class.
The Buccaneers will keep this in mind, especially considering the unique circumstances could push the best player at his position in the class back to a decent spot. If Barmore is available at 32, this pick makes plenty of sense for the Bucs from a value standpoint. Ndamukong Suh will not remain on the roster forever, and keeping a backup ready to step in is key.
This lack of need in year one will give Barmore all of the time he needs to develop. The size and athleticism are already there; a year as the fourth guy would be more of a formality on a stacked defensive line. He already has the talent to start on most other teams as is.
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By taking Barmore at 32, the Bucs will continue to invest in their future while also bringing in a player that can contribute from a depth role or in the event of injury as needed.
Given the fact that Tampa doesn’t have many holes or needs, taking the best player at the position with the final pick of the first round doesn’t sound too bad.
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