NEWSLETTER
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter the 2024 NFL Draft in a familiar position – contenders with a need to retool. Baker Mayfield solidified the quarterback position sans Tom Bracy, and while the Bucs boast a talented roster, key departures and the natural progression of the league necessitate strategic additions. With the 26th overall pick, the pressure is on to find a player who can contribute immediately and keep them in the NFC playoff race.
This year’s draft boasts a wealth of talent across multiple positions. Game-changing edge rushers, a possible generational tight end, elite wide receiver prospects, and offensive lineman galore are all within Tampa Bay’s grasp. Let’s take a quick look at who the Bucs are targeting with the 26th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2024 NFL Draft Picks
Tampa Bay holds seven total picks in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Who Will the Buccaneers Pick in the First Round
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter the 2024 NFL Draft off a surprising NFL Playoffs appearance which saw them come within one score of playing for an NFC Championship. They have the 26th overall selection in the first round and a clear goal with that pick. Do they add an edge rusher to replace veteran departures or seek a long-term solution at center? So assuming no trades, let’s dive into where the Buccaneers might be going with their first-round selection.
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Players Mocked to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Pick 26
Chop Robinson (Edge), Penn State – Chop Robinson isn’t your typical defensive end prospect. The Penn State product boasts an “alien-like” athleticism (as some scouts describe it) with a blazing first step and explosiveness off the line. At 6’3″ and 255 pounds, he has the size to handle NFL tackles, but his calling card is his rare speed and agility. This translates to a quick first step that allows him to disrupt plays in the backfield and generate pressure on quarterbacks.
However, Robinson is still a bit raw. He relies heavily on his athleticism to win matchups, and his pass-rushing repertoire needs development. He can struggle against tackles with good length and needs to refine his technique to become a more consistent threat. Still, the upside is undeniable. With coaching and experience, Robinson has the potential to become a dominant edge rusher in the NFL.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Top NFL Draft Priorities
Laiatu Latu (Edge), UCLA – His story is one of perseverance and unrealized potential. A neck injury forced him out of football at Washington, seemingly ending his career. However, after successful neck fusion surgery and a transfer to UCLA, Latu emerged as a dominant force.
At 6-foot-5 and 259 pounds, Latu possesses a prototypical defensive end frame. But his calling card is his relentless motor and explosiveness off the edge. He racked up an impressive 23.5 sacks in just two seasons with the Bruins, showcasing his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield and collapse the pocket. His accolades speak for themselves: a unanimous All-American in 2023, winner of the prestigious Ted Hendricks and Lombardi Awards, and the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year.
Latu isn’t without weaknesses. He can occasionally struggle against double teams and needs to continue refining his technique. Nevertheless, his upside is undeniable. With his proven production and relentless work ethic, Laiatu Latu is a surefire first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and would make an immediate impact on Tampa Bay’s defense
Jackson Powers-Johnson (Center), Oregon – He isn’t just another center prospect. The Oregon product brings a rare blend of size (6’3″, 328 lbs), strength, and athleticism to the position. A unanimous All-American and winner of the prestigious Rimington Trophy in 2023, Powers-Johnson solidified his reputation as the top center in college football.
His impact goes beyond accolades. Powers-Johnson boasts exceptional technique, anchoring the offensive line and providing a reliable wall for his quarterback. He excels in both run blocking, creating lanes for running backs, and pass protection, neutralizing defenders with his impressive footwork and hand placement.
While not a mauler in the run game, his intelligence and awareness allow him to make key blocks and open holes. NFL teams seeking a long-term solution at center, which the Buccaneers are exactly that, will be heavily interested in Powers-Johnson. He’s a high-floor, high-ceiling prospect with the potential to be a foundational piece in Tampa for years to come.
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