Rookie linebacker and fifth overall pick for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Devin White, will have a lot of expectations going into the 2019 season. Expectations come with being a high draft pick and the Buccaneers expect an immediate return on their investment. White should have no problem fulfilling that request.
Not Your Average Linebacker
Generally speaking, inside linebackers aren’t typically looked at as worthy of a top five pick in the draft. But Devin White offers the Buccaneers a generational talent at a position that was a major hole in the defense. Tampa Bay pulled the trigger on the LSU Tiger and so far, they haven’t been disappointed. He’s reportedly been sensational in camp so far with multiple interceptions.
What the Buccaneers are getting on defense is a sideline to sideline linebacker capable of running down speed backs, dropping back in coverage and packing a mean punch at 240lbs. Combine that with a 4.42 40 yard dash time and you can imagine the amount of havoc he’ll create on a football field. Not surprisingly, White will be the day one starter in Tampa Bay and media hype alone has him in the early running to win Defensive Rookie of The Year.
Prediction:
– 115 Total Tackles
– 4.5 Sacks
– 3 INTs
– 3 Forced Fumbles
Overview:
– White has all the tools to be an every down linebacker in today’s NFL and looks to be that guy for the Buccaneers. He will have every opportunity to thrive in defensive coordinator Todd Bowles’ attacking defense and will rack up large tackling numbers. Also a specialist in coverage, it wouldn’t be shocking to see White notch 3+ INTs. Unless he’s set back by injury, White will be an immediate force in the middle of the Buccaneers defense.
