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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Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive back Justin Evans (14) celebrates the win over the Tennessee Volunteers during the second overtime at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeated the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive back Justin Evans (14) celebrates the win over the Tennessee Volunteers during the second overtime at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeated the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Biggest Risk

Tampa Bay made a lot of smart moves in the 2017 NFL Draft, but selecting Justin Evans in the 2nd round was a head scratcher. They added someone who is more athleticism than football player at this stage in his development.

Evans is an explosive athlete who can easily change direction. This gives him the ability to cover a lot of ground from the safety position. However, he lacks great instincts and will take too many risks. Evans isn’t someone the Buccaneers can trust to keep receivers in front of him.

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His struggles supporting the running game is another problem. He tends to take poor angles to the football, doesn’t wrap up and allows yards after contact. Evans will be a liability as a run defender when on the field.

Higher rated safety prospects like Josh Jones and Obi Melifonwu were both selected after Evans in the 2nd round.

The Buccaneers could’ve even waiting to add a safety until the later rounds. This would’ve allowed them to use their 2nd round pick to address other needs like offensive line or cornerback.  A high-upside corner like Chidobe Awuzie was available when the Buccaneers were on the clock.

Evans’ athleticism gives him upside, but it was a risk to select such an unpolished player while better prospects were available.

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