Gregory Rousseau – EDGE, University of Miami
This isn’t saying that the option for the Buccaneers to land Miami edge rusher Gregory Rousseau is “under the radar” or that Rousseau himself is a “sleeper”. Besides, this possibility for the Bucs is starting to get more attention as time goes on. Rousseau is a very good player, and at some points was seen as one of, if not the top edge rushing prospect in the draft.
That is what lands him on this list.
At the start of draft season, Rousseau was predicted going the middle of the first round by just about every analyst, “expert”, and mock draft. As the days went on, his name dropped farther and farther down the board, thanks in large part to his pro day leaving much to be desired, until his pass-rushing partner at Miami, Jaelen Phillips eventually passed him. With all this being said, the prospect of the prospect free falling safely into the outstretched golden arms of the Buccaneers front office is certainly exciting, and a little unexpected.
For some, it may not be the most “exciting” development, but when you have the last pick of the first round, it usually means the team provided enough excitement during the season. All of the so-called “can’t miss” prospects are gone, and the Buccaneers have the chance for a low-risk, high reward first-round steal, or at least as much can be at the 32nd pick. With Jason Pierre-Paul being no spring chicken, Rousseau to the Bucs would be a great development. Besides, you can never have too many pass rushers.