The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are heading into the 2025 NFL Draft with several holes to fill in their roster. In this article, AJ Turn-Up, co-host of “The Aftermath” live stream gives you his favorite Draft targets for the Buccaneers.
Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
HT: 6’1
WT: 206 lbs
Accolades:
CFP national champion (2022)
First-team All-American (2024)
Consensus All-American (2023)
2× First-team All-SEC (2023, 2024)
Freshman All-American (2022)
Video:
Pros:
Devastatingly effective run defender who processes plays at warp speed, bringing elite closing burst and surgical angles to shut down rushing lanes before they develop
Rare combination of track speed and violent physicality shows up in his tackling – drives through ball carriers with textbook form while maintaining the explosiveness to deliver impact shots
Shows advanced hand usage against blockers in the box, consistently creates separation with strong punch before shedding to make plays against the run
Elite change of direction skills and short-area quickness allow him to mirror backs in space, rarely gets caught flat-footed against cutbacks or bounce-outs
Demonstrates natural instincts in zone coverage, particularly in matching patterns and feeling routes develop behind him while keeping eyes in the backfield
Verified 4.35 speed shows up consistently on tape, especially when ranging from deep alignment to make plays near the line of scrimmage
High football IQ manifests in pre-snap communication and adjustment – consistently got Georgia’s secondary aligned properly against motion and shifts
Shows natural hands and body control when playing the ball in the air, tracks it early and adjusts without losing speed
Cons:
Can get overaggressive attacking downhill against play action, occasionally loses leverage in coverage when quarterbacks manipulate him with their eyes
Press technique needs refinement, particularly against quick-twitch slots who can exploit his occasional high pad level off the line
Will sometimes trust his recovery speed too much in man coverage, giving up initial separation before trying to close late on breaking routes
Takes some questionable angles in pursuit when playing deep safety, leading to missed opportunities to make plays on the ball
Could show better discipline maintaining leverage in zone coverage, occasionally gets drawn out of position by quarterback manipulation
Summary:
The tape showcases a defensive prospect with exceptional run-defense skills, but also reveals some limitations in coverage. Although Malaki Starks excels in zone coverage, utilizing his impressive athleticism to recover, his technique and instincts in this area are still developing. Notably, he struggles to transition against elusive slot receivers and occasionally lapses in zone discipline, raising concerns about his potential as a well-rounded defensive back.
What stands out most on tape is not only Starks’ elite athleticism, which seamlessly transfers from the track, but also his remarkably rapid development of football instincts. These instincts perfectly complement his physical gifts, showcasing a textbook example of player development. Starks’ evolution from a talented athlete to a defensive stalwart culminated in a standout campaign, earning him a spot as a Jim Thorpe Award finalist and highlighting his dominance across multiple facets of the game.
Starks is a first-round talent whose instant impact is contingent on fitting seamlessly into a team’s scheme and being utilized effectively. His exceptional athleticism and polished run-defense skills warrant immediate playing time. However, his limitations in coverage may be exploited by complex passing offenses. While Starks brings a unique combination of physical prowess and aggressive playing style to the table, he requires substantial technical refinement to become a dependable, all-around defensive back.
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.
Jay Higgins, LB, Iowa
HT: 6’0
WT: 224 lbs
Accolades:
Big Ten Linebacker of the Year (2024)
Unanimous All-American (2024)
First-team All-Big Ten (2023, 2024)
Video:
Pros:
Sideline-to-sideline motor – put up gaudy tackle numbers. Routinely cleans up plays all over the field.
Textbook wrap-up tackler with minimal whiffs, serving as a reliable last line of defense against the run.
Plus coverage skills for an off-ball backer, showing the chops to hang in nickel packages at the next level.
Stout at the point of attack, consistently winning the leverage battle and stuffing inside runs with authority.
Natural field general, quarterbacking the defense and earning the trust of the coaching staff as a team captain.
High-floor prospect who brings it every snap, logging double-digit tackles in most outings during his breakout year.
Special teams ace early in his career, offering immediate four-phase value as he develops into a defensive contributor.
Football IQ off the charts, displaying uncanny anticipation and always seeming to be around the rock.
Cons:
Lacks ideal bulk for an inside backer, potentially struggling to stack-and-shed against NFL-caliber road graders.
Straight-line speed is pedestrian, potentially limiting his ability to recover if caught out of position at the next level.
Minimal production as a blitzer, raising questions about his ability to impact passing downs as more than a coverage defender.
One-year wonder as a full-time starter, leaving scouts wondering if he can replicate his production consistently.
May need time to adjust to NFL offensive complexity after thriving in Iowa’s relatively straightforward defensive scheme.
Summary:
Jay Higgins has the potential to excel as a three-down WILL linebacker in a 4-3 defensive scheme. His exceptional instincts and coverage skills enable him to remain effective in various packages. Higgins’ tackling ability and proficiency in stopping the run should make an immediate impact, allowing him to contribute significantly from day one in both run defense and passing situations.
While his size and athleticism may be average, limiting his adaptability to various defensive schemes, Jay Higgins is well-suited for a 4-3 defense that features a strong front four. His experience on special teams will provide an opportunity for early playing time as he adjusts to the faster pace of professional football.
Although Jay Higgins may lack elite physical attributes, his impressive production, football intelligence, and versatile skill set establish him as a reliable prospect with a high floor. He’s likely to be selected on day two and projects as a sturdy starter with the potential to exceed expectations due to his consistency and multifaceted abilities.
Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State
HT: 6’2
WT: 190 lbs
Accolades:
Bill McGrotha Award
All-ACC Academic Team
ACC Honor Roll
Video:
Pros:
Exceptional length paired with quick-twitch athleticism allows him to shrink passing windows and affect throws even when slightly out of position in coverage
Shows advanced route recognition from off coverage, particularly against quick game concepts where he consistently jumps underneath routes with explosive closing speed
Natural mirroring ability in press coverage stands out on tape – patient feet and fluid hips let him match releases without defaulting to grabbing
Rare combination of size and fluidity for the position – changes direction like a smaller corner while maintaining the length to challenge bigger receivers
Excels at using the sideline as an extra defender, consistently funneling vertical routes toward his help and limiting space for receivers to operate
Demonstrates veteran savvy with hand usage through the route stem, subtly directing receivers’ paths without drawing flags
High-level competitive toughness shows up repeatedly against the run – triggers downhill aggressively and shows no hesitation taking on larger blockers
Special teams experience across all units adds immediate value while he develops – size/speed combination makes him a potential gunner day one
Cons:
Press technique remains inconsistent – powerful punch when landed but accuracy wavers, leading to compromised positioning against cleaner releases
Occasional lapses in tackling fundamentals appear in space – relies too heavily on arm tackles rather than breaking down and driving through contact
Ball production doesn’t match his disruptive abilities – needs to convert more deflections into turnovers at the next level
Can get grabby when beat vertically, particularly against double moves where initial patient technique abandons him
Takes overly aggressive angles pursuing outside runs, creating cutback lanes that negate his physical advantages in run support
Summary:
Thomas’s game footage reveals why scouts are taking notice: his 6’2″ frame packs impressive athleticism. He’s aggressive in press coverage, using quick hands and fluid footwork to stay stride-for-stride with receivers. However, upon closer examination, his limitations become apparent, explaining his projected early third-round draft position. Thomas often gets caught looking into the backfield, and savvy route runners can exploit him with double moves, leaving him vulnerable.
Thomas’s on-field demeanor is undeniably compelling – he embodies the fierce, competitive spirit desired in a boundary corner. His standout performance against Notre Dame showcased his tenacity, as he battled relentlessly and harassed the Fighting Irish’s outside receivers. However, his struggles against Duke, marked by three missed tackles in the open field, underscore his raw, unpolished edges. While possessing all the physical attributes necessary to trouble NFL receivers, Thomas must refine his skills to reach his full potential.
A late-second to early-third round draft position seems fitting for this cornerback, who exhibits glimpses of elite potential but remains unrefined. With two years of guidance from a seasoned defensive backs coach, who can refine his footwork and instill trust in his instincts, he may blossom into a reliable boundary starter. However, expectations of immediate stardom or shutdown capabilities against top receivers are unrealistic, and teams should temper their enthusiasm accordingly.
Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State
HT: 6’3
WT: 196 lbs
Accolades:
Honorable Mention All-Big 12 DB
Allstate AFCA Good Works Team Nominee
Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll
Video:
Pros:
Rare length-speed combo at 6’3with speed shows up on tape when running vertically with receivers down the boundary
Natural ball tracking ability carried over from WR days – displays exceptional timing when high-pointing and attacking the football at its apex
Elite special teams value with five career blocked kicks showcases how effectively he uses his length and explosive burst
Shows advanced instincts in zone coverage, particularly in Cover 3 where he expertly leverages the sideline as an extra defender
Quick processor who demonstrates solid route recognition and anticipation skills despite limited experience at the position
Maintains low pad level unusually well for his height, allowing him to transition more smoothly than typical lengthy corners
Uses his frame effectively to re-route receivers in press coverage, showing potential to develop into a physical press corner
Former track speed manifests in recovery ability – can make up ground quickly when beaten initially on vertical routes
Cons:
Hip tightness and high-cut frame create limitations in quick-change situations, particularly against shifty receivers working back to the ball
Still developing consistent tackling technique in space – tends to dive at legs rather than breaking down and securing proper form
Raw in terms of technical refinement with only three years experience at corner – basics like backpedal and transition mechanics need polishing
Age concerns as he’ll be 25 during rookie season, potentially limiting his developmental runway despite impressive physical traits
Can be a beat slow triggering downhill against screens and outside runs, occasionally giving up the edge when he hesitates
Summary:
Darien Porter’s growth as a cornerback has been rapid, and his film reveals a player capable of making an instant impact in the right defensive system. His exceptional size and speed are not just impressive athletic traits, but also consistently evident on the field, particularly when matching up with larger receivers or covering deep routes. Porter also shows a natural aptitude for zone coverage, effectively utilizing his length and the sideline to his advantage in quarters and Cover 3 schemes.
Porter’s potential is substantial, with the ceiling of a legitimate starting cornerback capable of matching up against the NFL’s larger, more physical receivers. His rare combination of length, speed, and ball skills aligns perfectly with the desired traits for an outside cornerback in today’s game. Although his age may be a minor consideration, Porter’s rapid growth and elite athleticism suggest he can develop into a quality starter within two years. Given his unique skill set and potential immediate impact on special teams, day two of the draft appears to be an ideal landing spot.
Phillip Webb, EDGE, Jackson State
HT: 6’5
WT: 266 lbs
Accolades:
Listed as high as No. 25 in the ESPN 300
Four-star recruit by Rivals and 247Sports
Under Armour All-America Game
Video:
Pros:
Exceptional burst off the edge with elite first-step quickness, consistently beating offensive tackles to their set points and disrupting backfield timing
Natural bend and flexibility allows him to maintain speed while turning tight corners, displaying advanced ability to flatten to the quarterback
Strong hands at the point of attack, demonstrates ability to stack and shed blockers while maintaining gap discipline
Explosive closing speed in pursuit, covering significant ground with long strides and efficient movement patterns
Advanced pass-rush repertoire including effective cross-chop and inside counter moves that keep blockers off balance
Disciplined edge setter in run defense, consistently maintains outside leverage while working down the line of scrimmage
High football IQ evident in recognition of screen plays and ability to quickly diagnose run vs pass
Versatile defender capable of playing multiple techniques, showing effectiveness both standing up and with hand in dirt
Cons:
Frame needs additional bulk and functional strength to consistently hold up against NFL-caliber offensive tackles in run game
Can get caught playing too high in run defense, allowing offensive linemen to get into his chest and drive him off the ball
Still developing counter moves when initial pass rush is stalled, needs to expand arsenal of secondary rush techniques
Limited experience against top-tier competition after transfer from LSU to Jackson State raises questions about learning curve
Tendency to rely too heavily on athletic ability rather than technique when engaged with blockers in extended battles
Summary:
Phillip Webb’s impressive physical attributes and production across various levels of competition suggest he’s well-suited for a situational pass-rushing role early in his NFL career. His unique blend of length, burst, and agility makes him an asset in sub-packages, while he continues to develop the strength necessary for every-down responsibilities.
Webb’s skills are best utilized in a 3-4 defensive scheme, where he can leverage his athleticism from a two-point stance. However, he has demonstrated adaptability and can thrive in multiple fronts. To reach his full potential as an NFL edge defender, he must refine his power moves and counter-rushing techniques.
Webb’s athletic profile and pass-rushing foundation are promising, positioning him for success in the NFL, particularly in passing situations where his explosiveness and agility can shine. His development trajectory indicates a prospect with starter upside, contingent upon continued strength and technical improvements.
Make sure you take time to Subscribe, Like and follow “It’s About BUC’N Time with AJ Turn-Up”
Watch AJ’s merchandise video below. Then grab some of AJ’s gear by clicking here!
Follow, Like and Subscribe to Bucs Report
For more on this and everything Buccaneers check back here hourly at BucsReport.com
