One of the least talked about rookies in this year’s draft class for the Buccaneers has to be defensive lineman, Anthony Nelson. The University of Iowa standout has flown under the radar as far as headlines but is a sneaky sleeper for the 2019 season. The 6-foot-7, 271-pound prospect had an incredible showing at the NFL Combine in which he posted a 4.82 40-yard dash, a 35.5 inch vertical and a 6.95 3-cone shuttle time (which is elite for someone his size).
Progression Is Key
Simply put, Nelson got better each and every year while playing at Iowa. Known for his endless motor and quick feet, he resembles (playing-wise) Pittsburgh Steelers’ T.J. Watt. After redshirting his freshman year, Nelson would post three consecutive seasons in which he increased tackle totals (33 in 2016, 41 in 2017, 45 in 2018). He also increased his tackles for loss from eight and 9.5 in his first two seasons to a ridiculous 13.5 his junior year. Most importantly, Nelson boosted sack totals from six as a freshman, 7.5 as a sophomore and 9.5 his junior year. Given the injury dealt to Jason Pierre-Paul, Anthony will be thrust into situations early and often, which will allow him time to adjust to the league early in his career. His numbers this year might surprise us all.
Prediction
27 Total Tackles
5 Sacks
2 Forced Fumbles
Overview
Nelson will be able to play early in his career and will look to build on his huge junior season. Seeing as Carl Nassib and Noah Spence are the only to edge rushers ahead of him on the depth chart, the Buccaneers new coaching staff will give their rookie every opportunity to climb it.
Sources
