When Tom Brady retired following the 2022 NFL season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were projected by many to be one of the worst teams in the NFL. The signing of Baker Mayfield didn't inspire a ton of people, and the organization looked to be headed toward a period of transition.
However, Todd Bowles and the squad exceeded expectations, meaning they don't have a premier pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Despite going 9-8, they hosted a playoff game and came out victorious.
Which pick do the Buccaneers have in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft? Which prospects could land in Tampa Bay in a few months? Let's dive in.
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What Draft Picks Do The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Own?
After a 9-8 season and an NFC Wild Card win over the Philadelphia Eagles, the Buccaneers own the No. 26 overall pick. Tampa Bay was projected to win 6.5 games. Six wins would've netted them a top-eight selection, but they ultimately got hot down the stretch and were eight points away from defeating the Detroit Lions in the NFC Divisional Round.
The Bucs got out to a 4-7 start before ripping off five wins in their final six regular season contests. Baker Mayfield had a career year with 4,044 passing yards and 28 touchdowns, while Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Rachaad White all excelled in the receiving game.
Who Could The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Draft In The First Round?
Since Mayfield had a fantastic year, there's a good chance the Buccaneers will re-sign him -- especially since they are out of the rookie QB sweepstakes unless they trade up. Mike Evans is also a free agent, so if he isn't retained, Tampa Bay could eye a wide receiver here.
However, the Buccaneers' passing defense was one of the worst units in the NFL last year, and Todd Bowles makes his name on the defensive side of the ball. That said, it wouldn't be a surprise if the organization zeroes in on a cornerback or edge rusher at pick No. 26.
Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean and Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins could be available in this range. They would likely have to move up in the draft to acquire UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu or Penn State edge rusher Chop Robinson. Any of those four players would make a ton of sense in Bowles' attacking and aggressive defensive scheme.
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