With the NFL draft less than two weeks away, general managers are likely putting in some extra hours between now and then as this year’s draft will be fully virtual for the first time in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
Jason Licht of the Bucs has already said he’ll have the team’s director of football technology, Spencer Dille, at his house to make any repairs for him should technical difficulties arise during the draft. Fortunately, for Licht, he has experience when it comes to the draft, having been in charge of it since he was hired as the Bucs GM in 2014. Licht has hit home runs on several draft picks, but has also had a few duds, like cornerback Vernon Hargreaves and kicker Robert Aguayo.
So, which player has been his best pick, and which his best value pick? According to Charley Casserly of NFL.com, Licht’s best selection came in the 2014 NFL draft in the form of wide receiver Mike Evans.
Per Casserly:
“The 6-foot-5 wideout is so hard to stop because of his size, speed and hands. He’s been consistently great with up-and-down quarterback play, logging at least 1,000 receiving yards in every one of his six NFL seasons.”
No surprise there. Evans has been nothing short of spectacular since entering the league. As for who Casserly believes has been the best value pick during the Licht era, that honor goes to former Bucs linebacker Kwon Alexander, who was selected in the fourth round of the 2015 draft.
“A true run-and-chase linebacker, Alexander is highly instinctive and was a solid player and leader for the Bucs’ D for four seasons.”
Licht also seems to have found a future star in linebacker Devin White, who was taken fifth overall in last year’s draft. Tampa Bay owns the 14th pick in round one this year, and many experts believe they’ll target an offensive tackle to help protect Tom Brady. Knowing Licht is leading the charge for the Bucs in the draft should inspire confidence in Tampa Bay fans.
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