Buccaneers football in the NFL Draft

TAMPA, Fla. (AP): In order to maintain their dominance in the NFC South, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers aren’t scared to depend on young, untested players.

Would you rather always rely on rookies or guys in their second year? John Spytek, assistant general manager, responded, “Maybe not.”

“But I don’t really have any worries about it when they’re the right kind of kid and going about it the right way and you can trust them,” Spytek continued.

Two years ago, tight end Cade Otton and running back Rahchaad White were selected by the three-time defending division champions.

Three additional starters were selected in the 2023 draft: linebacker Yaya Diaby, right guard Cody Mauch, and defensive lineman Calijah Kancey.

The Bucs now believe they have added a new group of prospects, led by center Graham Barton, who might strengthen the team.

The needs of Tampa Bay included a running back, slot cornerback, edge rusher, and third receiver, in addition to the interior offensive line.

Barton, who was chosen in the first round by the Bucs at pick No. 26 overall, spent the last three seasons at left tackle at Duke. Now, he will battle for the starting center position.

The second-round pick by Tampa Bay was Alabama linebacker Chris Braswell. The third-round selections went to Georgia defensive back Tykee Smith and Washington receiver Joshen McMillan, Oregon running back Bucky Irving, Texas-El Paso guard Elijah Klein, and Washington tight end Devin Culp.

“I believe we have talented young players at places that we need, and we have good guys that match our culture. When it occurs, you get thrilled about it, Spytek remarked.

The assistant general manager said, “But they still need to come here and prove to us that they can play.”

Retaining their own free agents—quarterback Baker Mayfield, club career receiving leader Mike Evans, and seasoned linebacker Lavonte David—was the Bucs’ primary priority this summer.

Due to an injury to Ryan Jensen, who has since retired, another young offensive lineman named Robert Hainsey assumed the position of center, which Graham will battle for. Additionally, a guard spot is available on left when Aaron Stinnie left in free agency.

In the meantime, Braswell will have the chance to support a pass rush that is lacking due to the dismissal of linebacker Shaquil Barrett due to a salary cap violation.

Smith will have the opportunity to compete for the nickel cornerback position, and McMillan is eager to learn from one of the NFL’s top receiving tandems, Evans and Chris Godwin.

GREETINGS RECEIVED

For most of his time at Alabama, Braswell was the backup player to two first-round draft selections, Will Anderson Jr. and Dallas Turner.

The Houston Texans selected Anderson with the third overall pick in 2023. This year, the 6-foot-3, 255-pound Braswell was selected by the Bucs with the 17th overall choice in the draft, Turner.

“Did you ever consider leaving?’ we questioned him when he stopped over to say hello. “No, why would I leave?” he exclaimed. Alabama was my choice. Alabama is my favorite state. I have no fear of rivalry. “I have faith in myself,” declared Spytek. “This year, he gets to play for the first time, and he records eight sacks.”

RECOGNITION FACE

Troy Bowles’ son played college ball with Smith at Georgia. Every time the Bucs’ coach was able to watch the Bulldogs in person, he was able to get a close-up look at the third-round choice.

He claimed he could envision me playing nickel or safety when we spoke. Playing safety gives me the chance to learn from Antoine Winfield Jr., which is clearly advantageous given his influence on the game, Smith stated. “I’m eager to spend time with him, observe his style of play, and pick up skills from him.”

AWESOME COLLABORATOR

Three Washington receivers were chosen in the first three rounds of the draft, including McMillan. Rome Odunze was selected by the Chicago Bears with the ninth overall pick, and Ja’Lynn Polk was selected by the New England Patriots with the 37th overall choice in the second round.

Even with two other excellent receivers on the squad, McMillan stood out, according to Spytek.

The assistant general manager remarked, “His game has a smoothness and ease of use you really appreciate.”

Playing in an offense with so many playmakers, McMillan said, “Taught me brotherhood.” I wanted them to eat while we were having fun together. I learned that you had to share the love by being with them. We’re all going to make plays, and we want to win games at the end of the day.