There are many mock drafts going around now as the anticipation for the 2011 NFL Draft approaches.
Many pundits have the Buccaneers taking everything from a defensive end to an offensive tackle, to even a running back.
My colleague, Nick Houllis, has the Bucs taking Alabama running back Mark Ingram in the first round and I have to say, that would be a very nice pick.However, the Bucs are not in dire need of a running back and can find some good ones in the latter rounds.
One does have to keep in mind that this team is all about Josh Freeman. If there is an opportunity to draft a player on the offensive side of the ball that can help take the offense to the next level, you better believe that Dominik will pull the trigger.
That being said, defense wins championships and that’s the course I believe the Bucs will go in 2011.
With many needs on the defensive side, particularly on the DL, I believe the Bucs will trade up to get the player they want and that player will be Purdue defensive end Ryan Kerrigan.
Im a big believer in pure football players. Kerrigan measures out nicely at 6’4” 263 lbs and was very productive for the Boilermakers throughout his career with a staggering 33.5 sacks and 57 tackles for loss.
Those numbers prove that Kerrigan is not only a phenomenal pass rusher, but he can stand his ground in run support.
The Bucs need to be able to get to the quarterback and stop the run a lot more effectively in 2011 if they want any chance to make a super bowl run. Kerrigan brings a lot of passion and talent to the table, something that the Bucs seriously lacked in 2010.
I really dont think Dominik is going to wait around for whatever defensive end to fall to him. If Kerrigan makes it out of the top ten, look for Dominik to make a trade and grab the former Boilermaker.
Dominik goes after players he wants, this year will be no different. Kerrigan is the guy Tampa needs. As a Hawkeye fan, every inch of me wants to say draft Adrian Clayborne, but I know that Kerrigan is the better player and will probably have the better carrer when its all said and done.
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