Buccaneers address all three phases in final seven round mock draft

With the 27th overall pick, the Buccaneers select Zion Johnson – Guard (Boston College)

While the Tom Brady retirement/return saga was overwhelming at times (and still can be), the retirement of Ali Marpet was just as shocking. Couple that with Alex Cappa departing via free agency for the Cincinnati Bengals, and suddenly the Bucs went from a team with no holes this time a year ago to a glaring need at guard. They traded for Shaq Mason to fill one spot, but the second spot remains vacant.

As it currently stands, Zion Johnson is looking likely to be available by the time the Buccaneers pick at number 27 in the first round. He fits the currently vacant starting guard spot of the Bucs like a glove with his 6’3″ 312-pound frame, which helps produce brute-force strength.

Johnson stood out as an absolute stud in the Senior Bowl, even with his unorthodox starting stance, which saw his stock rise. He could slide right in and thrive protecting Tom Brady alongside a young offensive line filled with studs, potentially becoming the most successful Zion in all of sports. His versatility is also key because while he’s listed as a guard, he also has starting experience as a tackle. The Bucs value versatility in the interior, as evident by their selection of Robert Hainsey out of Notre Dame in the third round a year ago. Johnson could and should be an absolute home run pick for the Buccaneers.