Jason Licht and the Buccaneers have struggled to draft running backs and special teamers. Can two Tampa picks change this in 2022?
Overall, the 2022 NFL Draft is off to a great start for the Buccaneers. Tampa has been able to bring in starting-caliber players on the offensive and defensive lines, a tight end that can contribute in year one, a cheap punter, and the most athletic running back in the class.
While we are willing to argue about the value on several players, this group is in a much better position to succeed in the year they were drafted than their counterparts last season.
Still, the two picks that stand out the most for the Bucs are Rachaad White and Jake Camarda. A running back in the third round and a punter in the fourth. Does anyone see the issues with this historically?
While Jason Licht and this front office are exceptional overall, drafting running backs and special teamers has been a point of struggle.
Ronald Jones had one great year, Ke’Shawn Vaughn had one great run, Matt Gay flashed in moments, we aren’t going to get started on Roberto Aguayo…..
You should see the pattern.
Obviously the running back is more important, and the good news for White is that he is the most athletic running back in this class. White will get his chances, but he needs to actually show up in his rookie season to end this curse on rookie running backs in Tampa.
Camarda is…cheaper than Pinion, and the bar isn’t high to surpass him as a player. We may not like it, but the Bucs do look like they got better on special teams. Camarda just has to maintain this and not make the same mistakes as Pinion.
One way or another, these two guys need to be better than average for the Bucs in 2022. Licht has to start hitting on picks like these, and the good news is that these two are in positions to be successful if they play their cards right.
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