Mock Drafts continue to pour in as we get closer and closer to the NFL Draft in April. Evan Silva just posted his latest at Pro Football Talk, and you'll never guess what position he has the Bucs looking at. That's right, defensive end; but it might not be someone you are expecting. He thinks the Bucs will take Cal DE Cameron Jordan. Here is his rationale.
The Bucs have glaring holes at both defensive end positions. G.M. Mark Dominik will likely target a more natural pass rusher entering the draft, but he can settle for a safe prospect in Jordan after Kerrigan, Bowers, and Aldon Smith go in the teens. Jordan would start at left end in Week 1.
I have a few problems with this pick. First of all, I think Jordan is far less likely to be there when the Bucs pick then say, Ryan Kerrigan. Jordan had probably the most impressive Senior Bowl and Combine of all the defensive end prospects. I think he goes much earlier than this, possibly as high as tenth to the Redskins.
Secondly, he isn't a good fit for what the Bucs need. He is really more of a 3-4 DE than a 4-3, and while I think he is good enough to work in that scheme, he won't bring the straight-up pass rush that the Bucs really need from their DE. He is a good player, just not a very good fit. And if there is a DE still on the board that is comparable talent and a better fit, as I believe there will be, then I think the Bucs have to go in that direction.