The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ best cornerback in 2017 was Brent Grimes, who will turn 35 years old in July. Vernon Hargreaves still has intriguing potential at the position, but Tampa Bay needs to find a player to develop opposite or alongside the former Florida Gators star.
Thankfully for the Buccaneers, Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Denzel Ward has all of the tools to become the Pro Bowl player they’ll need in 2018 and beyond.
Ward has 4.32 speed and outstanding footwork, which has become the foundation for his appeal as a prospect. He also put up a solid 16 reps in the bench press at the 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Combine and recorded an explosive 39″ vertical.
From a purely physical perspective, Ward’s 5’11” height becomes a virtual afterthought when balanced with his speed and explosiveness.
Given his combination of speed, strength, and agility, Ward has the potential to thrive as a bump and run corner. He can line up in any number of schemes and roles, however, which should appeal to a Tampa Bay team that needs help throughout the secondary.
The Buccaneers would likely prefer Minkah Fitzpatrick, but if he’s off the board, Ward would be far more than just a consolation prize.
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The question is: Which prospect should the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft?