On paper, it may seem like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ season was a failure given their 7-9 record.
But, for those who follow this team closely, they know there’s a lot to be excited about with this team going forward under head coach Bruce Arians. Not only did the Bucs finish third in offense and 15th on defense, but they saw the emergence of star players like linebacker Shaq Barrett and wide receiver Chris Godwin, both of whom were named to the All-Pro Second Team.
As the team heads into the offseason, they’ll look to address their quarterback situation, and whether or not Jameis Winston will be back after throwing 30 interceptions this season. They’ll also look to continue building this defense under coordinator Todd Bowles, through both the draft and free agency.
The team currently holds the 14th pick in April’s NFL draft, and it’s just the second time in franchise history the team has held that pick. So, how did it turn out the last time they selected from that spot?
Pretty well, as a matter of fact. The team selected offensive tackle Kenyatta Walker out of Florida with the 14th overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft. Walker ended up starting 73 of the 75 games he played for the Bucs, and was a part of the offensive line that helped win Super Bowl XXXVII.
Offensive tackle is certainly a need for Tampa Bay, but we’ll have to wait and see whether they opt to shore up their offense or defense come draft time. Still, there’s plenty of value to be found at that spot, so the Bucs are in a good position.
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