NFL Draft primer: Buccaneers just need to bolster division-winning roster
2023 record: 9-8, won NFC South, lost in divisional round
Draft picks per round
1st Round: No. 26
2nd Round: No. 57
3rd Round: No. 89
3rd Round: No. 92 (from Lions)
4th Round: No. 125
6th Round: No. 220 (compensatory)
7th Round: No. 246
Top needs
Cornerback
Offensive line
EDGE
The Bucs traded top corner Carlton Davis to the Lions for picks and didn't sign much more than depth at the position. Longtime center Ryan Jensen retired this offseason, and the Bucs lost starting tackle Aaron Stinnie to the Giants in free agency.
Best first-round fits
Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama
Graham Barton, OL, Duke
Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA
Best Day 2 fits
Bralen Trice, EDGE, Washington
Sedrick Van Pran, OL, Georgia
Kamren Kinchens, S, Miami
How they did last draft
The Buccaneers received an A and found a high-upside defensive lineman in Calijah Kancey, along with another potential long-term starter on the offensive line with Cody Mauch. YaYa Diaby, their third round pick, had a very strong rookie year, logging in 7.5 sacks.
Dream fantasy draft pick
After re-signing Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans, the Tampa Bay offense is all about continuity for 2024. They're running things back. Chris Godwin enters an interesting walk year; perhaps his production will spike if the team slides him back into the slot, as expected. Given Evans' age and the uncertain future of Godwin, it won't be surprising if the Buccaneers take a swing at a wide receiver. But more pressing defensive needs — especially in the secondary — will need to be addressed first. — Scott Pianowski
