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.
Round – 1, Buccaneers 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.
Round – 2, Buccaneers Pick 53
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.
Round – 3, Buccaneers Pick 84
Cameron Williams, OT, Texas
HT: 6’6
WT: 334 lbs
Accolades:
2024 Joe Moore Award finalist
SEC Co-Offensive Lineman of the Week Joe Moore Award semifinalist in 2023.
Video:
Pros:
Devastating power in his initial punch, displaying vice-grip hand strength that allows him to control defenders once he locks on – showed up repeatedly against Georgia’s front.
Exhibits rare ability to convert pass protection reps into pancake blocks, firing his feet late to bury edge rushers who try to counter inside.
Shows flashes as a people-mover in the run game, creating good displacement on down blocks, though consistency can waver – especially against more technically sound defenders.
Shows impressive mobility for his size when pulling or climbing to the second level, particularly evident in Texas’s screen game.
Uses his massive frame and length expertly in pass protection, forcing edge rushers to take extremely wide angles to the quarterback.
Demonstrates good football intelligence, showing consistent improvement in picking up stunts and blitzes throughout the 2024 season.
Brings a mean streak to the field, finishing blocks with authority and looking to plant defenders whenever possible.
Young for the position at just 21 years old, suggesting significant room for technical refinement and continued physical development.
Cons:
Still developing proper kick-slide technique, often gaining minimal ground out of his stance which leaves him vulnerable to speed rushers.
Hand placement can be erratic in pass protection, particularly against crafty defenders who can exploit his high strikes.
Tends to bend at the waist rather than the knees when faced with quick change-of-direction moves, leading to balance issues.
Shows some limitations in recovery ability when beaten initially, lacking the lateral agility to redirect against counter moves.
Struggles to maintain consistent leverage in the run game, often playing too high and limiting his ability to drive defenders off the ball despite his impressive size.
Summary:
In a quick-game passing attack that utilizes heavy play-action concepts, Williams’ skills become a major concern for defensive coordinators. His large frame and exceptionally reliable hands are particularly effective when he’s able to set up vertically and operate in a confined space. A notable example of this was on display during the Michigan game, where Williams consistently overpowered defenders on quick passes and play-action concepts, making for a compelling replay. However, expecting him to consistently hold his own on longer drops against wide-9 techniques may be unrealistic for a rookie.
Williams has legitimate potential as a starting right tackle in a system that leverages his strengths. His pass set technique showed remarkable improvement from September to December, indicating a growing comfort level with the game. In a power-based offense that provides occasional chip blocking support against elite speed rushers, Williams can thrive as a dominant force on the right side. His technical foundation is solid, and with continued development, he’s poised to reach his full potential.
Round – 4, Buccaneers Pick 121
Sai’vion Jones, EDGE, LSU
HT: 6’5
WT: 280 lbs
Video:
Pros:
Good initial burst off the snap combined with NFL-caliber length creates advantages in the run game – can stack and shed when he maintains leverage
Functional strength shows up against tight ends and tackles – repeatedly demonstrates ability to hold his ground at the point of attack
Has shown improvement using his length to create separation – getting better at keeping blockers off his frame when he plays with proper technique
Adequate power at the point of attack – can handle single blocks effectively when he maintains pad level
Closes ground decently in pursuit – straight-line speed is sufficient when he has a clear path to the ball
Generally sound in setting the edge – understands containment responsibilities and maintains gap discipline
Athletic background translates to decent movement skills – changes direction adequately for his size
Frame suggests scheme versatility – could potentially play multiple techniques depending on team needs
Cons:
Raw as a pass rusher – lacks counters and relies heavily on straight-ahead power moves that NFL tackles will handle
Significant limitations bending the edge – stiffness in hips and ankles restrict his ability to turn tight corners
Inconsistent pad level is a recurring issue – gets too high too often, negating his natural leverage advantages
Hand usage needs considerable work – timing and placement are sporadic, leading to missed opportunities in the rush
Concerning tackle efficiency – technique breaks down in space and misses pile up when he can’t square up runners
Summary:
Game footage reveals a defensive lineman with the physical attributes suited for the modern NFL, but he requires substantial refinement of his technique to reach his potential. He relies heavily on his natural gifts – length, strength, and speed – to succeed, yet struggles to deliver consistent performances. While glimpses of excellence are evident, particularly in run defense, his overall impact on a down-to-down basis doesn’t quite live up to expectations generated by his impressive physical stature.
The key to Jones’ development is a patient timeline. He requires at least a year of refining his technique before he can be relied upon as a core player. While his athletic ability and physical attributes make him a worthy Day 3 pick, expectations should be tempered. With targeted coaching on hand usage and rush setup, Jones has the potential to evolve into a versatile defensive line contributor by his third year. His ceiling is promising, but his floor as a run defender should ensure a spot on an NFL roster.
Round – 5, Buccaneers Pick 157
Cobee Bryant, DB, Kansas
HT: 6’0
WT: 180 lbs
Accolades:
3× First-team All-Big 12 (2022, 2023, 2024)
Video:
Pros:
Elite ball production with 13 career interceptions and 22 pass breakups, showing natural instincts and timing when attacking the catch point that translates to Sunday.
Nasty competitor who plays with visible swagger and doesn’t back down from larger receivers despite his thin frame – brings legitimate dog to every snap.
Excellent zone coverage skills where he reads route combinations and quarterback eyes with veteran-level anticipation, often baiting throws he can disrupt.
Quick-twitch closing burst allows him to squeeze throwing windows and recover from occasional positioning mistakes with explosive final steps.
Surprisingly effective press corner with good hand usage and timing at the line of scrimmage, disrupting routes before they develop despite weight limitations.
Shows remarkable body control when turning to locate and track the football in flight, consistently finding ways to get hands on passes at full extension.
Routinely fights through receiver blocks in the run game with determined effort and technique that belies his size limitations – refuses to stay engaged.
Four-sport background shows up in his fluid hip transitions and natural movement skills, allowing him to mirror routes with minimal wasted motion.
Cons:
Significantly undersized frame at just 180 pounds (3rd percentile) creates legitimate concerns about durability and ability to match up with NFL-caliber X receivers.
Overly aggressive coverage technique leads to grabbing and unnecessary penalties – drew 12 flags over his final two seasons when beaten in man coverage.
Struggles against bigger targets who can box him out at the catch point or use their frame to shield him from making plays on back-shoulder throws.
Lacks elite deep speed (4.53 forty) to recover when beaten vertically by faster receivers, sometimes relying too much on grabbing to compensate.
Ankle-biting tackle technique will lead to broken tackles against NFL ball carriers, as he often dives low rather than squaring up on contact.
Summary:
Bryant boasts an impressive combination of ball skills and instincts, making him a prospect who will likely garner significant attention from defensive coaches. A notable aspect of his game is his exceptional ability to read the quarterback’s intentions in zone coverage, demonstrating a natural understanding of angles and patterns. He excels at baiting throws and then rapidly closing in to create turnover opportunities that can be game-changers. However, in man coverage, his slender build can be a liability when facing physical receivers who use their size to their advantage.
Game footage showcases a defender with an aggressive playing style, exceling when allowed to anticipate and attack. He’s effective in zone coverage, jumping routes and disrupting screen plays on the perimeter. Bryant’s energetic play is contagious, inspiring his teammates, particularly when he fearlessly takes on larger opponents in the run game. However, his limitations are exposed in isolated man coverage against bigger receivers, where his aggressive nature can lead to holding penalties and struggles to match physical strength.
Round – 7, Buccaneers Pick 235
Tyler Batty, DE/EDGE, BYU
HT: 6’6
WT: 272 lbs
Accolades:
First-team All-Big 12Â (2024
Second team All-Big 12Â (2023)
Independence Bowl Defensive MVP (2021)
Video:
Pros:
Anchor monster in the trenches, showcasing plus play strength to stack and shed against the run with consistent leverage.
Motor runs hot; relentless pursuit to the ball carrier with sideline-to-sideline effort, often making backside plays.
Toolsy pass rusher with a developing arsenal; flashes a powerful bull rush and an intriguing spin move to keep tackles off-balance.
High-level processor with quick play diagnosis; rarely bites on misdirection or play-action, allowing for rapid reaction time.
Uses his pterodactyl wingspan effectively to press blockers and disrupt passing lanes, creating batted balls at the LOS.
Scheme-versatile defender; comfortable playing in multiple techniques across the defensive front with consistent production.
Natural field general; demonstrating cerebral pre-snap adjustments and on-field communication skills.
Violent hands at the point of attack; consistently wins the hand-fighting battle to disengage and penetrate the backfield.
Cons:
Lacks that twitch off the snap; initial explosion is adequate but not elite, limiting his ability to consistently threaten the edge.
Can get engulfed by size when kicked inside; occasionally struggles to maintain his gap against combo blocks and down blocks.
Tackling technique needs refinement; tendency to lead with the shoulder instead of wrapping up, resulting in whiffs in space.
Hip tightness evident when cornering; ankle flexion and lower body pliability limit his ability to flatten to the QB.
Frame maxed out; may need to redistribute mass to improve functional strength for anchoring against NFL-caliber power.
Summary:
Batty is a high-energy edge defender with the potential to contribute on all three downs. He brings a blue-collar work ethic to the trenches, setting a firm edge and effectively stacking and shedding blockers in the run game. This skillset will likely earn him early rotational snaps.
In passing situations, Batty’s developing rush skills and quick play recognition enable him to be disruptive. However, his lack of elite bend may limit his ceiling as a speed rusher.
Batty’s versatility is a major strength. He’s comfortable playing various techniques across the defensive front, making him a valuable asset in both 4-3 and 3-4 systems. His exceptional processing skills and on-field communication abilities suggest he could quickly become a defensive signal-caller.
One potential concern is that Batty’s frame may be at its maximum development, which could limit his ability to add significant functional strength at the next level.
The Buccaneers addressed nearly every need in this mock. Including the Buccaneers need to bolster depth on their offensive line. Buccaneers General Manager Jason Licht strengthened the Buccaneers pass rush, the Buccaneers secondary, and Buccaneers linebacker corp. After this mock draft, things are looking good for the Buccaneers defense and the Buccaneers offensive front heading into the 2025 season.
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