2018 NFL Mock Draft: Sean Dyer’s First-Round Mock 1.0
By Sean Dyer
7. 48. Pick Analysis. S. Florida State. Derwin James. player. Scouting Report
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers would have loved for Bradley Chubb to fall one more pick. Even after adding Vinny Curry and Jason Pierre-Paul, the Bucs are not done addressing their pass rush. With the top pass rusher off the board, however, Tampa Bay turns to another area of their defense; the secondary.
Brent Grimes is back on a one-year deal but the Bucs need a long-term answer at cornerback opposite of Vernon Hargreaves. As far as safety goes, Chris Conte and Justin Evans are both solid, but Tampa Bay could use a playmaker on the back end.
Top cornerback prospect Denzel Ward was strongly considered here but the most talented secondary prospect available is Derwin James. James can make plays in coverage or in the box against the run. He’s a freak athlete who will make an immediate impact in the NFL.
The Buccaneers would also be keeping James close to home and Jameis Winton would definitely vouch for the fellow former Seminole.
Originally considered a mid-first-round pick, James has moved up draft boards as scouts go back and re-watch his tape. The Bucs are one of those teams as they reportedly gave James “extra attention” at Florida State’s Pro Day. James is a top-10 talent and will significantly improve Tampa Bay’s defense.