New PFF Mock Draft Has Buccaneers Making A Surprising Pick

Tampa Bay general manager Jason Licht has been known to be somewhat unpredictable in the NFL Draft in recent times — his latest first-rounder in Calijah Kancey didn't even come to Tampa Bay on a Top 30 visit. But could he be this unpredictable?

Pro Football Focus released a new mock draft as the 2024 NFL Draft draws ever closer, and the two-round mock features some interesting choices. Aside from things like J.J. McCarthy going second overall and the Patriots not drafting a quarterback, writer Sam Monson has the Bucs taking an offensive tackle in Alabama's J.C. Latham.

Here's what the mock had to say about the pick for Tampa Bay:

"J.C. Latham is a tackle prospect to most, but in my eyes, he could kick inside to guard and be an elite people-mover. His footwork may give him trouble at tackle against NFL competition, but he could destroy opponents as a guard. Tampa Bay’s line has needed some repair work, and that continues with Latham at this spot."

Latham has indeed not gotten much guard buzz at all, and Latham himself has insinuated that he prefers left tackle as his position. But as Monson notes, footwork is indeed a concern with Latham, and it would be less of a concern if he had less space to work with as a guard. While this pick seems unlikely, it could be something to watch come draft day.

Additionally, the mock also has the Bucs address edge rusher in the second round by drafting Washington's Bralen Trice, and the mock notes that his 80 pressures last year could help an ailing Tampa Bay defensive line.

Stick with BucsGameday for more coverage of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throughout the 2024 offseason.

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