Buccaneers fans, the first practice of the NFL Senior Bowl is in the books. Both prospects in front offices arrived for what is one of the premier events of the draft season. Of course this includes the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
General manager, Jason Licht, is notorious for taking senior bowl players. There is no doubt that he’ll be looking closely at several of these prospects in this group. Don’t be surprised to hear two or three of these names called come draft night for Tampa Bay.
This year features a talent rich group of players taking the field. Ranging from Heisman Trophy finalists to potential top 10 picks, there is no shortage of storylines to watch. However, not every great player is a great fit for every team.
When considering what the Buccaneers needs appear to be heading into the off-season, some position groups will be a higher priority than others. With this in mind, I kept a close eye on several of these positions, watching what players stood out. Here are my senior bowl day one winners for the Buccaneers.
4) Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina
It was just a few years ago that Rattler was getting buzz as the first overall pick in the draft. It feels like it’s been much longer than that after a downfall for Rattler over the last three years. After losing his starting job at Oklahoma and transferring to South Carolina, Rattler has carved out a path to being drafted once again.
Rattler had his above average NFL alarm on display Tuesday afternoon. He made several high-quality throws in the wide receiver drills, and really looks the part of an NFL quarterback. Of all the quarterbacks on display, and considering where they’re all expected to be drafted, Rattler is probably the one I’d be most interested in.
3) Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia
In terms of pure, separation ability, McConkey is probably the most appealing wide receiver at the senior bowl. As lightning fast, acceleration, and ability to stop on a dime make him an excellent route runner. He also has the long speed to blow past flat footed cornerbacks.
McConkey worked himself open early and often today. It felt like no cornerback on the field could cover him. And impressive feet, considering there is more than one potential top 50 draft pick corner at the senior bowl.
2) Roman Wilson, WR, Michigan
One of the more underrated wide receivers at the senior bowl is Roman Wilson. Despite playing for the national champion, Michigan Wolverines, he was often overlooked in a run-heavy offense. Today he got a chance to put his skills on display.
Wilson was constantly working in himself open today. His speed, route running, and ability to make difficult catches caught my eye several times. If he continues to shine like he did today, don’t be shocked to see him go as early as the third round.
1) Jackson Powers-Johnson, IOL, Oregon
This might’ve been the biggest winner of everyone at the senior bowl today. Not only did Powers-Johnson have a spectacular weigh-in, measuring bigger than expected, but he also looked later on his feet than I expected. He was already one of the bigger names at this event, but I get the feeling his stock is only going to rise even higher.h
For the Buccaneers, I believe Powers-Johnson is working his way into the conversation at the 26th pick. He would fill the massive void left by Ryan Jensen and would be an immediate upgrade to the offensive line. I believe spending a first round pick on a center is a great investment if you believe that player can be an All Pro caliber player. That is the case with Powers-Johnson.
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