mock dissecting the nfl draft: bucs pt. I
Few sporting events are as fashionable to over-hype as the NFL Draft. Since we here at the Sticks are slaves to fashion we plan on doing our part to hype this spectacle. Today we have a two part series, with part one covering the positions of need for our Bucs.
Last year’s Bucs squad has been called the worst playoff team ever, and I am inclined to believe that. The Bucs benefited from an easy schedule and a soft division, much like they will this season. But even with what appears to be an easy schedule this season the Bucs will need to make some improvements if they expect to return to the playoffs. Let’s break down the positions they need to improve at…
Pass Rusher
Last season the Bucs totaled 32 sacks, which is low compared to their dominant defense under Dungy. From ‘97 to ‘02 the Bucs averaged 44 sacks a season.
Gaines Adams has showed flashes of dominance and should develop into a very good player but the Bucs still need that Warren Sapp type, an undertackle who can rush the passer.
Offensive Tackle
Just after the season ended offensive tackle was listed as a position of need for the Bucs but I believe most draft prognosticators have come to their senses. While the Bucs do not have any outstanding tackles they do have some good to average ones. Jeremy Trueblood has done a good job on the right side and Donald Penn played well in relief on the left side. The Bucs will hope Luke Petitgout will stay healthy although recent history would indicate otherwise. Still there are other positions of greater need for the Bucs.
Running back
It would appear the Bucs are loaded at this position: Cadillac Williams, Earnest Graham, Warrick Dunn. But I don’t believe Cadillac will play next season. And Dunn is approaching the point where the term “washed up” is used more frequently when discussing his ability. Which really just leaves Graham who, while he played well last season, lacks the ability make the big play that Cadillac brought to the table. I like some of the backs who can be found in the later rounds of the draft for the Bucs.
Receiver
For much the same reason the Bucs need another running back they could use another receiver. This offense lacks playmakers outside of the rapidly aging Joey Galloway. The Bucs averaged 21 points a game, which was 18th best in the NFL. While Jeff Garcia was an exceptional quarterback for the Bucs he needs to be surrounded by more playmakers. Of course, the problem for rookie receivers is that they rarely contribute much until their 3rd season and are more likely to be busts.
Cornerback
With the departure of Brian Kelly the Bucs are left with a hole in the secondary. They still have Ronde Barber and the surprisingly effective Phillip Buchanon but they need a guy who can be the third corner this season and eventually become a full time starter. Although the two main problems you find with rookie receivers you also run into with rookie corners.
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