Bucs GM Jason Licht and QB Baker Mayfield – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR That’s where the debate opens up in the most recent wave of 2024 NFL Mock Drafts. Being in the back end of the first round, the Bucs are looking less likely to be in a position to draft a top quarterback, currently ruling out guys like USC’s Caleb Williams, UNC’s Drake Maye, and LSU’s Jayden Daniels. Instead, they will be in a better position to draft a skill position player such as a wide receiver or cornerback or beef up the offensive line. That is not to say they will not take a signal caller, as there is a second-tier of prospects headlined by Washington’s Michael Penix Jr., Oregon’s Bo Nix, and Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy, among others. But they have plenty of options and directions in which to add talent in their current spot. In the latest round of popular mock drafts, PewterReport.com looks at what they have in store when Tampa Bay is on the clock next April. ESPN’s Matt Miller No. 19 – Tampa Bay Bucs: Texas WR Xavier Worthy Mike Evans is potentially hitting free agency in March, and even if the perennial 1,000-yard receiver returns, he will turn 31 years old in August. It’s time for Tampa Bay to invest in a younger top-tier pass-catcher, at least as long as one of the top four quarterbacks doesn’t slip to No. 19. Worthy is fast and elusive with big-play ability. He has scored 25 touchdowns for Texas during the past three seasons and is a blur with the ball in his hands. The 33rd Team’s Connor Livesay No. 20 – Tampa Bay Bucs: Alabama CB Kool-Aid McKinstry One of the most disappointing units in the NFL this season has been the Tampa Bay Buccaneers secondary. Despite having some quality veterans, Tampa Bay’s defense ranks 29th in dropback EPA and 19th in dropback success rate. Improving the cornerback room will need to be at the top of the priority list heading into the offseason, and Alabama CB Kool-Aid McKinstry is a scheme fit. Pro Football Network’s Ian Valentino 
Florida State WR Keon Coleman – Photo by: USA Today No. 19 – Tampa Bay Bucs: Florida State WR Keon Coleman The future of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ receiving room is in flux as both Mike Evans and Chris Godwin are facing tough contract situations. Godwin hasn’t looked nearly as explosive as in years past, while Evans is producing like a madman with Baker Mayfield. It’s time for new blood, even if both players are back. Florida State’s Keon Coleman was one of the big risers of 2023. The thrilling jump-ball specialist is similar to Evans as an athlete for his size and would allow this offense to create more explosive plays regardless of who is under center. Walter Football’s Walter Chrepinsky No. 20 – Tampa Bay Bucs: BYU OT Kingsley Suamatia If the Buccaneers aren’t in a position to obtain a franchise quarterback, they’ll need to give Baker Mayfield better protection. Kingsley Suamatia has amazing athleticism for a tackle of his size. No. 51 – Tampa Bay Bucs: Illinois OT Julian Pearl The Buccaneers have a weak offensive line that wasn’t tested until the blowout loss to the Eagles. They’ll have to address it early in the 2024 NFL Draft. Julian Pearl is a versatile, athletic blocker. 
Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. – Photo by: USA Today Tankathon.com No. 20 – Tampa Bay Bucs: Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. Sports Illustrated’s Luke Easterling No. 20 – Tampa Bay Bucs: UCLA EDGE Laiatu Latu Tampa Bay’s list of needs could be a mile long this offseason, so this pick could go in any number of directions. In this scenario, the best match of need and value comes at the EDGE spot, where the Bucs could use an eventual replacement for veteran Shaq Barrett. Latu’s injury history could cause him to tumble a bit, but he’s been dominant a full strength this season. No. 51 – Tampa Bay Bucs: Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. No. 84 – Tampa Bay Bucs: West Virginia OL Zach Frazier The post Bucs Go In A Variety of Directions In Latest Mock Drafts appeared first on Pewter Report. Source: https://www.pewterreport.com/bucs-varie ... ck-drafts/
