J.T. Olson’s Final 2021 Bucs Mock Draft

It is officially draft week! We are at a point where we have heard all the rumors, connected all the dots and read all the tea leaves when it comes to all of the 2021 Bucs mock drafts. There is nothing left to do but make your predictions and wait for the big day.

We know where the Bucs might be looking to spend their pick. They have no immediate needs, but there is a need for quality depth and preparing for the future. Stocking up on talent in the draft is how good teams stay good.

So without further ado, here is my final 2021 Bucs mock draft.

Round 1, Pick No. 32: EDGE Joe Tryon, Washington Huskies

Tryon is big, physical, and athletic. His motor is always running hot and is perceived as a good culture fit with the Bucs. Defensive coordinator Todd Bowles will also love his skill set and versatility.

Tryon flashes serious pass rush ability. He can win with length and power, as well as speed and agility on stunts. And while his consistency with technique is lacking, Tryon would be in a great situation to learn from great veterans in Shaq Barrett and Jason Pierre-Paul.

Tryon would be an excellent rotational edge defender as a rookie who can stop the run and pressure the quarterback. He also brings the upside where he could take over as a starter next season.

He’s been a popular pick amongst our staff and with good reason. Don’t be surprised if he’s wearing pewter and red after this weekend.

Round 2, Pick No. 64: T Jalen Mayfield, Michigan Wolverines

Mayfield has been projected to be drafted anywhere from the late first to the mid third round. This inconsistency is a reflection of his inconsistency.

While Mayfield has very good athletic ability and shows great flashes, his technique has left a lot to be desired. So much so to the point where some feel his best position may be at guard in the NFL.

Perhaps a redshirt year can work out his issues and make him an offensive tackle of the future. If not, moving to guard would minimize many of his flaws. Regardless, Mayfield is a physical and agile lineman with a mean streak.

Round 3, Pick No. 95: DT Jay Tufele, USC Trojans

I have little doubt that Tufele will be one of the biggest steals of this draft. After sitting out the 2020 season his projected draft stock has fallen from the late first round to the back end of day two.

Tufele is powerful and difficult to move at the point of attack. He can step right into the NFL and be a quality run defender. However, he also flashes quality pass rush moves. Tufele might not be a jaw dropping athlete, but he will be a good pro for a long time.

Round 4, Pick No. 137: WR Marquez Stevenson, Houston Cougars

First and foremost, Stevenson will be a great kick returner for the Bucs. He averaged over 36 yards per return last season and has three career return touchdowns. In terms of immediate impact, this is a clear cut roll.

Stevenson can become much more than that down the line. His speed and elusiveness are some of the best in this draft. He is an absolute weapon in space and can stretch the field deep. If he were to get playing time on offense early in his career then he could be a big play threat and gadget player as a rookie.

Round 5, Pick No. 176: S Divine Deablo, Virginia Tech 

Diablo is a massive safety who makes a living in the box. At 6-foot-3 and 225-pounds, he is a physical run defender who loves contact. He also brings special teams value as a guy who can run and hit with the best of them.

In terms of coverage, Diablo is functional. Realistically he projects as backup for Jordan Whitehead and a potential replacement if Whitehead leaves in free agency after the 2021 season.

Round 6, Pick No. 217: RB Elijah Mitchell, Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns

Mitchell brings a well rounded skill set and makes his mark in the passing game. He has good hands and brings a solid athletic skill set. A rotational pass catching rule is the ideal fit for him in the NFL.

Mitchel would make good competition for Ke’Shawn Vaughn and a potential backup for Giovanni Bernard.

Round 7, Pick No. 251: TE Tony Poljan, Virginia 

Poljan is a project tight end who is still learning the position. He shows quickness and the blocking mentality you want. Additionally, he can play some wildcat quarterback after playing that position at Central Michigan University.

If Poljan makes the team it will be based on upside and athleticism. If the Bucs can get special teams value from him in 2021, that would be ideal.

Round 7, Pick No. 259:  LB Antjuan Simmons, Michigan State Spartans

Simmons is a coverage linebacker who brings a high level of competition on each play. He is a willing run defender and brings an element of grit. This is the type of player who thrives on special teams which gives him that much more value.

This coverage ability would provide a nice compliment to what Kevin Minter brings as a depth linebacker.

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What do you think of this final 2021 Bucs mock draft? Be sure to check out our other final Bucs mock drafts and let us know what you think in the comments below!