Week 13 in the NFL isn’t even in the books yet and we’re already talking about the upcoming 2018 NFL draft, which takes place in Texas this year.
It’s practically a forgone conclusion that the hapless, winless Cleveland Browns will have the number one pick, and with that pick, the consensus is they will draft QB Josh Rosen out of UCLA, but the way we have played this season, we should lock up a top-10 draft pick. Currently, we are protected to draft at number 8.
It’s been painfully obvious this season that the Bucs have struggled pressuring and getting to the QB, which makes drafting a quality defensive end a priority in the off-season.
The Buccaneers defense needs pass rushers and lucky for us, this years draft is heavy with defensive lineman, from Arden Key and Bradley Chubb, to possibly Clelin Ferrel, should he declare for the draft. Personally, I am a huge fan of Arden Key out of LSU. At 6’6 and 265 lbs, I think he would fit in nicely at right defensive end and is one of the most complete ends in this draft. In fact, I am higher on him then I am on Bradley Chubb, mainly because I have seen Key play much more.
Another need the team is sorely lacking is quality cornerback play. Currently, I’m not sold on drafting anyone coming out of college that high. I think Derwin James and Minkah Fitzpatick are the best defensive backs this year, however, neither will be in Tampa Bay.
I can also foresee the Buccaneers draft an offensive lineman, such as Billy Price, who is an excellent offensive linemen out of Ohio State.
Thankfully, this hellish of a season is almost over, it’s time to start looking forward to the off-season and the upcoming draft. As demoralizing as this season has been, I am forever a Tampa Bay Buccaneer and the thought of jumping ship is not, and will never be an option.
Edited by: Harmeet Kapur
