Mel Keiper and Daniel Jeremiah recently released their first mock drafts for 2017, and both of these guys have Tampa selecting a defensive end in the first round.
Keiper’s mock draft has Tampa selecting Taco Charlton from the University of Michigan, while Jerimiah has Tampa selecting Charles Harris from Missouri University. Both excellent players, both could be exceptional additions to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive line.
Charles Harris’ three-year stint at Missouri had put up some impressive numbers, including 18 sacks, 5 pass defends, 80 solo tackles, and 5 forced fumbles.
Taco Charlton recorded 19 sacks, 56 solo tackles, 1 forced fumble, and 2 pass defends.
If Tampa selects either player at 19th it would be the second time in a row that Tampa had selected a DE in the first rounds. Last year, Tampa selected Noah Spence in the second round. There are many needs that can be addressed with the 19th pick, from wide receiver to safety, but one cannot overlook the need of thoroughbred defensive tackle or a Hoss for an offensive lineman.
Regardless of where we decide to go with the 19th selection or what we decide to do with the pick, I have full confidence that Jason Licht and Dirk Koetter will do enough brainstorming that they will come up with the best option for Tampa, with that pick.
