With The First Pick
Fansided

Buccaneers 2021 NFL Draft primer as Tom Brady looks to run it back

By Garrett Ballard

TAMPA, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 07: A detailed view of the scoreboard after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium on February 07, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers defeated the Chiefs, 31-9. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 07: A detailed view of the scoreboard after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium on February 07, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers defeated the Chiefs, 31-9. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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Buccaneers
Tampa Bay Buccaneers outside linebackers Jason Pierre-Paul (90) and Shaquil Barrett (58). Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

Team needs for Buccaneers

Need One: Edge Rusher

Yes, Shaquil Barrett was just resigned for the long term, but on the opposite side of the defensive line, Jason Pierre-Paul might be on his way out soon. Pierre-Paul is 32 and is going to be a free agent after this season. The Buccaneers might be looking to draft someone to play in a rotation and learn behind Pierre-Paul before taking the reigns in 2022.

Need Two: Interior Defensive Line

The Buccaneers face a situation with Ndamukong Suh much like that of Jason Pierre-Paul. Suh is 34 and was considering retirement this offseason. Keeping this defensive line youthful will be a crucial part of the Buccaneers’ success continuing on. Vita Vea is the best nose tackle in the league, and getting him some long-term linemates will do wonders for the production. If they select an interior defensive lineman in round one, they will be in a rotational role and developing until they take over in 2022.

Need Three: Offensive Tackle

This one might ruffle some feathers. Yes, Donovan Smith was good in the playoffs; that should not offset the play of his entire career. He has been the starting left tackle for the Buccaneers since day one, and has been one of, if not, the biggest weak points of the entire offensive line. Looking at the body of work, Smith does not consistently play good football.

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