With The First Pick
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers: In-Depth 2017 NFL Draft Review

By Jon Dove

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) scores a touchdown during the third quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard (88) scores a touchdown during the third quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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January 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Chris Godwin (12) catches a pass against the Southern California Trojans during the first half of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
January 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Chris Godwin (12) catches a pass against the Southern California Trojans during the first half of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Depth Chart Impact

Prior to the draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had a majority of their starters already in place. They were basically looking to add some talent in key positions. Tampa Bay accomplished their goal while also filling out their depth chart.

Chris Godwin is someone who was added at a position of need. The Buccaneers had Mike Evans and DeSean Jackson penciled in as starters but lacked a clear No. 3 option. Godwin has the talent to quickly establish himself as the team’s third receiver.

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His biggest threat is Adam Humphries who is coming off a solid season. However, the addition of O.J. Howard could mean that the Buccaneers run a lot more two tight end sets. It’ll be interesting to see how Tampa Bay balances the playing time between Howard and last year’s breakout player Cameron Brate.

Look for Kendell Beckwith to get an opportunity to start at inside linebacker. This would allow Tampa Bay to bump Kwon Alexander to the outside giving them a strong starting group. The combination of Beckwith, Alexander and Lavonte David could really do some damage.

Tampa Bay used a 2nd round pick on Justin Evans with the thought he could compete for a starting job. He’ll be battling Chris Conte and Ryan Smith for the job opposite JJ Wilcox.

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