UDFA Sleeper: Offense and Defense

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It’s that time of year again. Newly drafted rookies are coming into minicamp and OTA’s with either a blown ego, via draft status, or a humble one (i.e. Devin White).

Undrafted free agents are also in camp every year, but with more of an urgency considering their climb to make the roster. This is what makes OTA’s and training camp positional battles a hell of a scene to watch come June and July. Here’s a quick rundown at some of the more notable UDFA’s in Buccaneer history:

– MLB Shelton Quarles (1997- 2006)
– DE Michael Bennett (2009- 2012)
– OT Donald Penn (2006-2013)
– RB LeGarrette Blount (2010-2012)
– Demar Dotson (2009-Present)

You all get the point. A lot of these guys could end up being a team’s diamond in the rough. With that being said, today we’ll look at the current UDFA’s on the Bucs roster and sleepers you should keep your eye on.

List of Tampa Bay Buccaneers UDFA 2019:

Sleeper To Watch (Offense): Bruce Anderson, RB (North Dakota St)
Height: 5’11
Weight: 210lbs
– A 2- time NCAA Champion at NDSU, Anderson played all 4 years splitting carries with the other lead back. Exploded for 1,216 yards and 12 TD’s on 5.2 YPC his Junior season. As a Senior, he ran for a team- high 924 yds on an absurd 7.4 YPC. He also chimed in 12 receptions for 199 yards and 3 TD’s.

Video credit: Draft Diamonds

Analysis- Anderson is a one-cut, streamline change of pace back with a bit of power on his frame as well. He’s got great hands, but was seldom used in the passing game in college. Runs with balance and low center of gravity. Can create in open field with quick cuts. Capable of playing special teams.

Chance to make roster: (25-40%)

Sleeper To Watch (Defense): Kahzin Daniels, LB (Charleston)
Height: 6’2
Weight: 244lbs
– Playing with partially blind eyesight, Daniels was a one man recking show in college. After a mostly quiet freshman year with just 3 sacks, the 245lb linebacker followed up with two monster campaigns in 2017 and 2018 with 11 and 12 sacks, respectively. He finished up his senior year notching 8.5 sacks bringing his career total up 34 1/2.

Video credit: Draft Diamonds

Analysis- Regardless of his condition, if you can get to the quarterback, you can earn a spot in this league. Expect Daniels to compete for an OLB positive due to his strength and technique. While not a great coverage threat, he’ll make up for that with his ability to bring down the quarterback.

Chance to make roster: 10-25%

Written by: Joshua Omoregie

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