It’s that time of year again Buccaneers fans! The NFL offseason, or silly-season as some would call it is here. That can only mean it’s time for some mock drafts.
Heading into this mock draft we have the Buccaneers already signing former Saints defensive back Paulson Adebo, and former Chargers EDGE rusher Khalil Mack in free agency.
Now with two new additions to the Buccaneers defense, and the Buccaneers re-signing Lavonte David, the Buccaneers head into this mock looking to further fortify their defense.
Buccaneers Round -1, Pick 19
Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
HT: 6’3
WT: 236 lbs
Accolades:
First-team All-SEC (2024)
Video:
Pros:
Explosive first step jumps off the tape – watch him knife through the A-gap against LSU, leaving their protection scheme in shambles on his way to a drive-killing sack
Coverage instincts are advanced for a converted edge player – his interception against Georgia showed exceptional route recognition from zone drop
Brings serious pop as a tackler while maintaining efficiency – only 5.5% missed tackle rate in 2024 and consistently delivers the message on contact
Multifaceted weapon who creates matchup problems – spent 20+ snaps each at MIKE, WILL, and edge spots against Tennessee and Missouri
Rare closing speed for a 244-pounder – his pursuit angle on the scoop-and-score against Tennessee was a masterclass in acceleration
Uses 6’3″ frame and long arms to disrupt passing lanes – broke up multiple quick games against Michigan by getting his mitts up in throwing lanes
Shows natural timing as a blitzer – his delayed pressure against South Carolina caused a game-changing strip sack in the fourth quarter
Developmental arc points up – youngest linebacker in the class with demonstrable improvement each season at Alabama
Cons:
Over-aggression creates vulnerability against misdirection – bit hard on multiple play-action fakes against Auburn, creating explosive play opportunities
Still developing hand usage when stack-and-shed is required – top offensive linemen at LSU and Michigan were able to latch and control
Pad level rises when tackling in space – allowed extra yards after contact against physical SEC backs who could drive through arm tackles
Will abandon zone landmarks early when quarterbacks scramble – gave up two big plays against Missouri trying to chase their mobile QB
Pass rush plan needs expansion – currently wins primarily with speed and bend, struggled when forced to counter against better SEC tackles
Summary:
After extensive film study of Campbell’s 2024 season, his impact potential jumps off the screen. His usage at Alabama – particularly in their simulated pressure packages – showcases a dynamic defender who can wreck offensive game plans from multiple alignments. The LSU game exemplified his playmaking ceiling: perfectly timed A-gap pressures, explosive range against screens, and the athleticism to match up in coverage. While he occasionally struggled when linemen got square to him, his ability to slip blocks and close space made him a constant threat.
Modern defensive systems that emphasize second-level pressure and multiple fronts will get an immediate impact player with Pro Bowl upside. His performances against Tennessee and Missouri highlight why he’s a top-40 prospect – seamlessly dropping into Tampa-2 zones, timing up delayed blitzes, and showing the processing speed to diagnose plays quickly. Yes, he’ll need to continue developing his block-shedding technique and coverage discipline against play-action, but his current skill set already translates to significant defensive value.
The tape shows a 21-year-old defender playing with veteran savvy in crucial moments. That fourth quarter against Auburn was telling – after biting on an early play-action, he adjusted and proceeded to blow up three straight screen attempts with textbook diagnosis and explosive closing speed. His combination of youth, elite physical traits, and steep development curve points to a future defensive cornerstone. In a league where offensive innovation forces defenses to constantly adapt, Jihaad Campbell brings the scheme versatility and explosive athleticism to be a difference-maker by year two.
Buccaneers Round -2, Pick 53
Jack Sawyer, DE/EDGE, Ohio State
HT: 6’4
WT: 260 lbs
Accolades:
CFP national champion (2024)
2× Second-team All-Big Ten (2023, 2024)
USA Today All-American (2019)
Video:
Pros:
Devastating power at the point of attack – consistently rocks back tackles with powerful first contact and maintains leverage through the rep
Natural instincts in the run game shine when diagnosing pulling guards and tight ends – quickly processes and attacks appropriate gap
Nasty bull rush that can cave in the pocket – shows exceptional leg drive and hip torque to convert speed to power
High-level football IQ translates to excellent play recognition – rarely fooled by misdirection or caught out of position
Cross-chop move is a thing of beauty – times it perfectly to get tackles leaning before clearing their hands
Runs hot as a pass rusher and shows relentless pursuit – multiple coverage sacks in 2023 from pure effort
Strong hands and excellent placement when taking on blocks – consistently controls the point of attack
Showcases natural leadership qualities and high character – two-time team captain who elevated in big moments
Cons:
Below average get-off at the snap limits his ability to stress tackles around the edge – often last one moving on the defensive line
Lacks elite bend and ankle flexion to consistently turn tight corners – has to win with power or through direct lines
Hand timing in pass rush can be erratic – allows offensive linemen to land first punch too frequently
Change of direction limitations show up when countering back inside – spin move lacks the explosiveness to threaten NFL tackles
Despite good testing numbers, functional athleticism appears closer to average – may struggle to win with speed at next level
Summary:
Sawyer’s skills are best utilized by a team that employs multiple defensive fronts and prioritizes strength at the point of attack. His intelligence and versatility enable defensive coordinators to strategically position him across the formation, although he excels most when working from a three-point stance.
Expect Jack Sawyer to make an immediate impact against the run, while developing into a consistent 6-8 sack per year player. His skills will enable him to remain on the field for all three downs.
The team that drafts Sawyer gains more than just a skilled player – they acquire a culture-setter who embodies an old-school mentality. With his best football still ahead of him, Sawyer’s powerful combination of strength, technique, and football IQ ensures he’ll be a reliable starter for years to come.
Buccaneers Round -3, Pick 84
Carson Schwesinger, LB, UCLA
HT: 6’4
WT: 226 lbs
Accolades:
• First-team All-American (2024)
• First-team All-Big Ten (2024)
Video:
Pros:
• Hot motor with sideline-to-sideline range. Shows dog mentality when chasing down ball carriers in space.
• Quick trigger downhill with natural instincts to shoot gaps and beat blockers to spots in the run game.
• Plays with loose hips and fluid feet in coverage. Clean pedal and transitions when matching up with backs and tight ends.
• High football IQ with savvy route recognition. Consistently finds work in zone and processes combinations quickly.
• Nasty demeanor as a blitzer. Shows juice getting home and understands how to disguise and time up pressures.
• Plus body control and balance as a tackler. Breaks down in space and drives through contact with proper form.
• Battle-tested special teams demon with three years of experience in the third phase.
• Team captain- commands respect in the locker room through work ethic.
Cons:
• Thin-framed defender with questionable anchor. Gets swallowed by size and lacks pop in his hands when taking on blocks.
• Raw stack-and-shed ability. Struggles to disengage once bigger bodies latch on at point of attack.
• Green in terms of starting experience with only one year as primary defender.
• Can play too fast downhill at times. Gets caught peeking in backfield and will overrun some fits.
• Build limits upside as traditional inside backer. Frame suggests move to WILL in pros.
Summary:
Carson Schwesinger profiles as a developmental WILL linebacker with immediate special teams value. He boasts innate instincts and above-average athleticism, but must bulk up and refine his ability to shed blocks to secure defensive playing time. If he can maintain his agility while increasing his strength, he possesses the potential to become a three-down contributor.
Schwesinger is best suited for a 4-3 defensive scheme, where he can capitalize on his strengths in space and exploit gaps, rather than consistently engaging with blockers. He’s poised to make an instant impact on special teams, particularly in kick coverage, while developing into a reliable backup linebacker. As a Day three prospect, Schwesinger offers upside for growth into a defensive sub-package role.
To reach his full potential, Schwesinger must focus on adding strength at the point of attack without compromising his athleticism. While he demonstrates flashes of playmaking ability, he needs to develop greater consistency in reading keys and trusting his instincts. His blue-collar work ethic and value on special teams, however, provide a clear pathway for him to secure a roster spot and gradually expand his role.
Buccaneers Round -4, Pick 120
Quincy Riley, CB, Louisville
HT: 5’11
WT: 194 lbs
Accolades:
First team All-C-USA (2021)
Second team All-ACC (2024)
Conference USA All-Freshman (2020)
Video:
Pros:
Elite ball skills, consistently jumping routes and creating turnovers with natural instincts and timing
Scheme versatile, excelling in both man and zone coverage with fluid hips and quick change of direction
High football IQ, displaying excellent route recognition and ability to bait quarterbacks into poor throws
Competitive at the catch point, using length and leaping ability to challenge larger receivers effectively
Solid tackler for his position, wrapping up well and limiting yards after catch in the open field
Multi-sport background translates to impressive overall athleticism and closing speed on the field
Durable player who has consistently increased his snap count and production each season
Special teams value, with experience as a dangerous return man from his high school days
Cons:
Slightly undersized for the position, which may cause concerns against larger NFL receivers in press coverage
Run support needs improvement, occasionally struggling to disengage from blocks on the perimeter
Average long speed could be exposed against elite NFL vertical threats
Can be overaggressive in coverage, potentially leading to penalties or big plays at the next level
Limited experience against top-tier competition may lead to a learning curve in the NFL
Summary:
Quincy Riley is poised to become a valuable nickel corner, with the potential to develop into a starting outside cornerback. His exceptional ball skills and instincts will serve him well at the next level, making him an attractive option for teams that prioritize turnovers.
Riley’s versatility allows him to thrive in various defensive schemes, including press-man and zone-heavy systems. His quick-twitch athleticism and route recognition skills make him a formidable opponent for receivers. With experience in both man and zone coverages, Riley offers coordinators flexibility in deployment.
To excel in the NFL, Riley may need to add bulk to handle physical receivers. However, his competitiveness and technique provide a solid foundation. With another year of development against top ACC competition, Riley can significantly boost his draft stock. By improving his run support and showcasing his skills against elite receivers, he can emerge as a top cornerback prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft class.
Buccaneers Round -5, Pick 158
Rylie Mills, DT, Notre Dame
HT: 6’5
WT: 292 lbs
Accolades:
ESPN 2nd-Team All-American (2024)
Sporting News 2nd-Team All-American (2024)
Video:
Pros:
Exceptional athleticism for his size, with a 4.79 40-yard dash time that puts him in the 79th percentile among defensive linemen
Shows exceptional lower half stability when properly leveraged, anchoring against drive blocks with powerful base and maintaining gap integrity through contact.
Transitions from run defender to pass rusher with impressive fluidity, recognizing blocking schemes quickly and adapting his approach mid-snap.
Possesses legitimate scheme versatility with experience at multiple techniques, looking equally comfortable as a 3-4 end or working inside in four-man fronts.
Delivers sustained power throughout reps, maintaining push even when initially stonewalled and showing the ability to restart his rush through contact.
Uses his length masterfully in the run game, creating separation that allows him to locate ball carriers while engaged with blockers.
Brings a calculating approach to stunts and twists, timing his movements precisely and exploding through created lanes with bad intentions.
Motor runs hot regardless of game situation, showing relentless backside pursuit and giving second and third efforts when initial rush stalls.
Cons:
December 2024 ACL tear against Indiana will likely sideline him through rookie training camp and potentially into the regular season, delaying his NFL impact.
Lacks elite twitch to threaten edges consistently, resulting in pass rush wins that come more from persistence than explosive first-step advantages.
Post-ACL explosion and change of direction ability remains a significant question mark until he can demonstrate full recovery on the field.
Knee bend deteriorates through extended series, causing him to play too upright and making him vulnerable against reach blocks and angle-driven schemes.
Pass rush arsenal remains more theoretical than practical, flashing counters but rarely stringing moves together into cohesive sequences that maximize his tools.
Summary:
Mills’ defensive profile is geared towards disruption rather than pure strength as an anchor. On film, he showcases a violent and aggressive approach in the passing game, complemented by adequate yet inconsistent performance against the run.
Given this disparity, Rylie Mills is naturally suited for a rotational role. As he refines his technique, he can earn more playing time on early downs. However, his immediate impact will likely come in pass rush packages. Mills’ impressive combination of length, hand usage, and football IQ helps offset athletic limitations, potentially elevating his overall ceiling.
The NFL’s evolving defensive landscape prioritizes versatility and multiplicity, making Mills an attractive asset when fully healthy. Teams that invest time in his rehabilitation will be rewarded with a technically proficient defender whose skills align perfectly with contemporary defensive strategies.
Mills’ makeup suggests a player who will maximize his physical abilities, ensuring he reaches his full potential. His dedication and work ethic will resonate with teams seeking a defender who embodies the intangible qualities necessary for success in today’s NFL.
Buccaneers Round -7, Pick 237
Jermari Harris, DB, Iowa
HT: 6’0
WT: 192 lbs
Accolades:
Third-Team All-Big Ten
AP second-team All-Big Ten
Video:
Pros:
Natural ball hawk with exceptional zone instincts. Shows rare anticipation jumping routes and has consistently proven his ability to flip the field with eight career interceptions.
Veteran-level processor who sees route combinations develop before they happen. Consistently baits quarterbacks into throws he can attack, particularly in quarters coverage.
Uses length masterfully in press coverage with a devastating one-arm stab. Controls receiver releases without drawing flags – remarkable discipline with only two penalties in his career.
Elite football IQ developed through six seasons in Iowa’s NFL-style defense. Understands leverage points and how to squeeze receivers into his help.
Quick-twitch athlete in short areas who shows sudden movement matching releases. Changes direction explosively when the ball is in front of him.
Special teams ace who brings immediate value on multiple units. Shows the same competitive fire covering kicks as he does at corner.
Patient technician in press coverage who rarely gets beat over the top. Maintains excellent outside leverage and rides receivers up the stem.
Advanced route recognition allows him to jump underneath patterns. Consistently shows up in big moments with game-changing plays on the ball.
Cons:
Concerning tackler who relies too heavily on arm tackles. Fails to break down in space and shows hesitation when required to navigate through traffic.
Build-up speed player who can struggle to recover if beaten early. Lacks the elite burst to match up with true burners on vertical routes.
Shows some stiffness transitioning out of his backpedal. Extra gather step when flipping hips creates separation windows on quick-breaking routes.
Gets caught peeking in the backfield too often in zone. Several examples of receivers working into blind spots when he loses discipline reading the quarterback.
Medical history raises red flags after multiple surgeries. Age and durability concerns could impact draft stock significantly.
Summary:
Harris’ unique skill set is optimized for success in today’s NFL, where hybrid coverages and pattern-matching schemes dominate. His exceptional instincts in zone coverage and ability to deceive quarterbacks make him a prime candidate for teams employing quarters-based systems.
Harris’ ball production and route recognition skills are evident on tape, particularly when he’s able to keep his eyes on the quarterback and play top-down on routes. While he may not possess elite athleticism, he compensates with exceptional processing skills, effectively identifying route combinations and shrinking throwing windows.
The team that selects Jermari Harris will acquire a polished, pro-ready defensive back capable of contributing to multiple special teams units from day one. As he develops into a starting role, his exceptional football intelligence and experience against top competition will facilitate a seamless transition to NFL coverage concepts.
Defensive coordinators who maximize Harris’ strengths will deploy him strategically, leveraging his skills in various situations. Utilizing his instincts in zone coverage. Capitalizing on his length in press-man situations. Protecting him from unfavorable matchups against elite speed receivers.
In the right system, Harris possesses the tools to exceed expectations, outperform his draft position, and become a vital component of an NFL secondary.
The Buccaneers addressed nearly every need in this mock. Yes, the Buccaneers still need to add to the interior offensive line and wide receiver corp. But, this franchise is known for their defense. And after this mock draft, things are looking good for the Buccaneers defense heading into the 2025 season.
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