If you look at most mock projections for the 2024 NFL draft, you’ll see the same usual suspects landing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at the No. 26 overall pick.
It’s usually an edge rusher, an interior offensive lineman, or a cornerback. Every now and then, you’ll even find a projection that has the Bucs taking advantage of this year’s loaded wide receiver class with their top selection.
But what if they throw a curveball, and make a selection that comes out of left field?
That’s the scenario that was recently broken down by the Bucs’ in-house team of Scott Smith and Casey Phillips, who broke down a trio of prospects Tampa Bay could grab late in the first round:
While Minnesota’s Tyler Nubin might be a solid fit for the Bucs’ safety depth on Day 2, his poor athletic testing will likely keep him out of the first round. Oregon’s Bo Nix is far more likely to land with a QB-needy team like the Denver Broncos in the first round than as Tampa Bay’s replacement for Kyle Trask, and spending their top pick on a quarterback after signing Baker Mayfield to a big extension makes little sense.
Oklahoma’s Tyler Guyton is an intriguing tackle prospect, but Luke Goedeke made huge strides last season after being moved back to his natural position on the right side opposite Tristan Wirfs. The Bucs are set at both tackle spots for the time being.
It’s always fun to consider off-the-wall scenarios for a process like the draft, which always delivers some measure of chaos. But it seems extremely far-fetched that any of these three prospects will be selected by the Bucs in the first round.
