3 sleepers Buccaneers drafted who could become stars

Might the Bucs have a few future studs outside the top of their 2024 draft class?
Devin Culp
Devin Culp / Thearon W. Henderson/GettyImages
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There is a lot of talk about the top of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' 2024 NFL Draft class, and justifiably so.

Graham Barton filled exactly what the Bucs needed in Round 1, and the value of someone like Chris Braswell in Round 2 felt like the Bucs came away with a win. But, beyond the top of this draft class, the Bucs may have also found some gems.

Which of the guys from the third round and beyond could wind up doing bigger things than anticipated?

There is potential for the Bucs to have found some stars later on in the draft

1. Elijah Klein, G

It might sound crazy picking a sixth rounder to be a potential star, but Elijah Klein very well could have opportunity -- and that's the first thing a young player needs, opportunity.

Currently Klein is projected to be a backup guard. But, with the way the interior line played last season, he very well could get his shot sooner than later. Both Ben Bredeson and Cody Mauch left much to be desired with their play in 2023, and if Klein has a strong offseason and impresses during training camp, there is no reason why he couldn't get a crack at starting.

Klein simply looks the part, having ideal length and excellent strength for an interior lineman. He is also able to get up to the second level efficiently. The athleticism and strength are there, but playing too high can get him in trouble. If he's able to accept the proper coaching and improve fundamentally, Klein has the makings of a very good NFL guard.