Share

Three Best Fits For Tampa Bay Buccaneers In First Round Of 2025 NFL Draft


The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enjoyed a successful season in 2024, finishing with a 10-7 record and winning the NFC South.

Now, the team will be looking to take the next step in 2025 and continue contending. With the 2025 NFL Draft right around the corner, the team will be looking to add an immediate starter.

Most mock drafts have the team selecting a defender with the No. 19 pick. The team has a high-powered offense that will retain its best pieces, so it makes sense to aid an aging defense.

Today, let’s identify the three prospects who make the most sense for the Bucs in the first round.

NFL Scouting Combine
Jihaad Campbell #LB05 of Alabama participates in the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 27, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama

One of the most common picks for the Bucs in mock drafts has been linebacker Jihaad Campbell, and it’s easy to see why.

Campbell is a true do-it-all field general who commands the middle of the field. The linebacker has the speed to be efficient in pass coverage while also being unafraid of contact and showing some pass-rush moves in 2024.

Last season, the linebacker racked up 117 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, five sacks, and one interception. Campbell’s added pass-rush ability in 2024 will only makes teams more interested in the linebacker.

In Tampa Bay, Campbell could start next to the legendary Lavonte David before taking over that leadership role when the veteran hangs it up.

Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall

Sticking on defense, the Bucs could also use a pass-rusher with upside. Enter Mike Green from Marshall.

Green burst onto the scene in 2024 after racking up a whopping 17 sacks, which led FBS. The pass-rusher has a unique blend of speed and strength that could make him a force at the next level.

In Tampa Bay, Green could immediately start on the outside opposite offseason addition Haason Reddick. The pass rush in Tampa Bay would go from a huge area of concern to possibly a strength in the span of one offseason with the additions of Reddick and Green.

Jahdae Barron, DB, Texas

The first two suggestions for the Bucs were a linebacker and an edge-rusher, so now let’s go with a talented defensive back in Jahdae Barron.

Jahdae Barron had a monster season in 2024, racking up 67 tackles, three tackles for loss, and leading the SEC with five interceptions. The defensive back is capable of playing as a slot corner or even at safety depending on the defensive package.

In Tampa Bay, Barron could take over as the nickel corner or free safety. The speedy defensive back is a ballhawk who also isn’t afraid to make contact with ball carriers.



Source link