The Tampa Buccaneers performed averagely in the 22/23 season, considering their form in the past three seasons. We also saw the end of Tom Brady's career, which could have ended better if the team had covered their loopholes. Nonetheless, the 2023 draft class offered Tampa options to correct their squad insufficiency.
With 7 prospects selected, the NFL team can get at least 5 stars to join the first teams or be essential role players. Let's look at these former college stars and analyze how they can help the Buccaneers.
Calijah Kancey - Pittsburgh
Calijah Kancey joined his college team as a three-star recruit and developed as one of the best defensive tackles (DT). He helped his team win multiple tournaments, including the ACC in 2021.
Kancey has been a consistent performer, even when Pittsburgh performed poorly. For instance, the team struggled in 2022, but the DT had a productive run, recording the following stats:
31 tackles (14.5 for loss) - 11 matches
7.5 sacks
The excellent stats earned him the College Football Network award on top of becoming the first Pittsburgh All-American since 2013. Therefore, his hard work is justified, easily fitting the culture of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
His pick by the Bucs 19th overall was a surprise, considering his lower weight class than other professional DTs. However, the team has done this before, drafting an underweight Logan Hall in 2022.
The rookie brings an explosive defense, which will be handy to increase the turnover rate. You can also use this factor in NFL odds when considering multiple NFL wagering choices.
Cody Mauch - North Dakota
Cody Mauch is an exciting player, a one-time tight end before switching to the offensive tackle (OT) position. The joyful character is the 6th ranked OT in the draft class, showing the quality he brings to the offense.
He was a key piece for the North Dakota side between 2021 and 2022, assisting them to win the Baison trophy. Like Kancey, he has individual awards, being a one-time Phil Smith FCS OL of the year.
Mauch's skills bag is one to admire as a Bucs fan, offering sufficient pass protection through his quick feet. He's also an excellent hustle-OT, quickly eliminating rushers, even in compromised situations.
The Bucs will need his services, with opponents looking to exploit the new quarterback, Baker Mayfield or Tray Trask. You can also have some hopes on Tampa's offense as a sports bettor, banking on the 2nd round pick.
Yaya Diaby - Louisville
Yaya Diaby had an excellent end to his college football, attracting a selection by the Bucs in the third round, 82nd overall. His senior year saw him record the following stats:
37 tackles (14.5 for loss)
9 sacks
Scouts argue that he's undersized, though he uses his 263 lb frame to make important plays for his team swiftly. However, it is best if he adds mass, considering the competitive nature of the NFL. Speed and line explosiveness are his strengths, a critical aspect in the league, which can be lethal if he gets the proper conditioning.
He can be used in game-deciding downs, his Louisville days proving his clutch mentality. Additionally, the 6'3" star will be essential in the team's rotation in case of any off-season trades or injuries during the season.
Payne Durham - Purdue
Payne Durham's journey to the NFL has been fascinating, having played Lacross before taking football in his high school senior year. The tight end (TE) is an excellent addition to the offensive rotation, boasting impressive stats from his time at Purdue.
You'll need to be patient with him, as is the norm with most round 5 picks or any other late round. He took time to adapt to college football, though he was still a key player in most plays. This is thanks to his 6'5", 253 lb body. It helps him fight for tough catches and gain extra yardage with defenders around.
He has the potential to be an elite player, considering his blocking skills, helping the defense block blitzes and rushers. Therefore, he is a good asset in run-plays, increasingly essential in modern-day football. His only weakness is speed, and he is not a downfield threat for extended plays.
Trey Palmer - LSU & Nebraska
Another offensive asset added to the BUCS is wide receiver Trey Palmer from Nebraska, selected with the 191 overall picks. He's a former track star, clocking 4.33 in the 40-yard dash.
His college days had ups and downs, being forced to transfer from LSU to get more playing time. The Nebraska move was career-changing, getting more throws and game minutes. This allowed him to showcase his skills to the NFL, where the BUCS saw him as a great addition.
The team now has additional threats in the downfield and special team plays, utilizing his speed and 6'0" height. Trey will be an electric player if the Bucs make excellent plays for him.
Conclusion
Tampa's draft class is quite stacked, and it's clear they were looking for more defensive players. This comes after losing a couple of close games the previous season. Nonetheless, the offensive power added, including the OT, will be key for the all-around performance.
