2018 NFL Mock Draft: Impact of recent trades and signings

Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick is the No. 4 overall prospect on my big board. Due to the circumstances that include a widespread hunger for talent at quarterback, however, Fitzpatrick slides to No. 7 overall.

That works out perfectly for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which desperately need to improve at both cornerback and safety during the 2017 offseason.

Fitzpatrick’s appeal is found in the fact that he can line up at safety or play in slot coverage as a cornerback. Some question if he can consistently line up outside the numbers, but Tampa Bay will likely work him out to make their own determination.

Both Chris Conte and T.J. Ward regressed in 2017 and could stand to be replaced, but one can also see a future with Fitzpatrick and Hargreaves being paired together.

Regardless of where he lines up, the general consensus around the NFL is that Fitzpatrick is going to be a high-level pro. He lives and breathes football, plays hard on every snap, and even provides great value on special teams.

Tampa Bay needs a running back, as well, but with Barkley off the board and a wealth of talent further down the board, Fitzpatrick is the obvious choice.