Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2019 NFL draft primer

Here’s everything Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans need to know about the 2019 NFL draft:

VITALS

Head Coach: Bruce Arians

General Manager: Jason Licht

2018 record: 5-11

DRAFT PICKS

1st Round | No. 5 overall

2nd Round | No. 39 overall

3rd Round | No. 70 overall

4th Round | No. 108 overall

5th Round | No. 146 overall

6th Round | No. 210 overall (from PHI)

7th Round | No. 217 overall (from ARI)

TEAM NEEDS

Pass Rusher

The Bucs got big numbers out of Jason Pierre-Paul and Carl Nassib last year, but switching for a more 3-4 scheme under new defensive coordinator Todd Bowles will necessitate bringing in some new personnel on the edge. Shaq Barrett was one of the better values in free agency, and Noah Spence is a better fit for this scheme, but this year’s draft is loaded with talented rushers.

Offensive Tackle

Donovan Smith picked a terrible time to have his worst season yet, turning in an often dreadful performance in a contract year. Even so, the Bucs handed him a hefty extension, confident he can lock down the left tackle spot for the next few years. Right tackle is a different story, as Demar Dotson isn’t getting any younger, and injuries have continued to nag him.

Right Guard

This was easily the worst spot on the starting roster all year for Tampa Bay. Caleb Benenoch was a turnstile, and it’s hard to believe rookie third-rounder Alex Cappa still couldn’t beat him out for the job. The Bucs absolutely have to address this spot in a big way this offseason.

Cornerback

Yes, the Bucs spent a pair of second-round picks on corners in last year’s draft, but Brent Grimes isn’t returning, and every NFL defense needs three starting corners nowadays. Carlton Davis and M.J. Stewart have bright futures, but Vernon Hargeaves III finally reaching his full potential should be viewed as a bonus, not something Tampa Bay should count on.

Linebacker

Kwon Alexander took a huge payday in San Francisco, which could leave the Bucs looking for a replacement early in this year’s draft. There have been some veteran additions, but more depth signings than high-quality starters. If the Bucs are looking to replace Alexander’s range and athleticism, they’ll need to do it with a draft pick.