ClutchPoints
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are caught between maintaining their recent playoff contention and potentially embarking on a rebuild. They do have a solid foundation of veteran leadership and an emerging crop of young talent eager to make an impact. As such, general manager Jason Licht faces the challenge of striking the right balance. Through a series of astute free-agent signings and a well-calculated draft strategy, the Buccaneers are positioning themselves for a productive offseason. Using the Pro Football Focus simulator as our tool, we dive into a comprehensive 7-round mock draft aimed at retooling the roster for a renewed push toward NFC South dominance.
Tampa Bay made a significant move by locking up 29-year-old Chris Godwin with a three-year contract. Sure, Godwin’s dislocated ankle is a concern. However, he remains a proven commodity in the receiving corps. Additionally, when paired with Mike Evans, the duo offers a dangerous one-two punch. If Jalen McMillan continues to develop, this receiving group could once again be among the league’s best.
Haason Reddick’s time in the NFL has been marked by underachievement since being drafted 13th overall in 2017. Still, the Buccaneers’ decision to take a one-year chance on him at $14 million makes sense. The gamble presents far more upside than downside. If Reddick can tap into his potential, he could provide a much-needed boost to Tampa Bay’s pass rush.
Re-signing Ben Bredeson did not grab many headlines. That said, it’s a quietly important move given the offensive line’s performance in 2024. As one of the league’s top-five units, keeping the line intact is crucial to maintaining offensive success. However, key areas still require attention: bolstering the offensive line further, addressing long-term solutions at tight end and in the secondary, and strengthening the overall depth of the roster. The Buccaneers have talent across the board, but this draft could be the catalyst that pushes them from “good” to “great.”
Here we’ll try to look at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7-round post-free agency 2025 NFL mock draft, per PFF simulator.
Securing one of the top edge rushers in the 2025 draft without having to move up would be a massive victory for the Buccaneers. James Pearce Jr is a disruptive force off the edge. He has elite burst, refined pass-rushing techniques, and a relentless motor that defensive coordinators adore. With his twitchy, explosive movements, Pearce possesses the potential to be an NFL difference-maker. He has a ceiling that could reach All-Pro levels. His ability to generate pressure without the need for constant blitzing would be a valuable addition to Tampa Bay’s defense, especially under Todd Bowles. Pearce, paired with Haason Reddick, would significantly enhance the Bucs’ ability to rush the quarterback and make plays in the backfield. In the meantime, he will learn from two experienced veterans in Reddick and Lavonte David.
With an aging and inconsistent cornerback group, selecting...
