The Future Looks Bright For Our 2017 Draft Picks – Kyle Riddle

Generally speaking, the Bucs had a very successful 2017 draft. Jason Licht once again managed to get some very good talent beyond the first round.

With the 19th overall pick, the Bucs took tight end O.J. Howard from Alabama. Howard had a very productive rookie year. He started off a little slow, mainly being used as a blocker for the first quarter of the season. Then O.J. broke out, catching 26 passes with TDs and an amazing 16.6 YPC.

In the second round, the Bucs went for safety Justin Evans from Texas A&M. Evans was known as a big hitter that also has excellent ball skills. Last year he didn’t disappoint, earning a starting spot halfway through the season. In 9 starts he, grabbed 3 interceptions and had 66 tackles.

When the third round came, the Bucs took Penn State wide receiver Chris Godwin and LSU linebacker Kendall Beckwith. Coaches immediately raved about Godwin’s maturity. Playing mostly as a fourth receiver all year, he finally got to start a game due to the suspension of teammate Mike Evans. He ended the season with 34 catches for 525 yards and 1 touchdown. Beckwith was expected to go earlier than the third round until a knee injury dropped his value. All season he played like a veteran, notching 73 tackles and 1 sack on the year. He even started several games due to injuries to Kwon Alexander and Lavonte David.

Hopefully, Jason Licht can work his magic again this year.

Edited By: Morgan Adele