Buccaneers tipped to replace Super Bowl champion in mock draft

Adam Schultz

Buccaneers tipped to replace Super Bowl champion in mock draft image

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will enter the offseason knowing where most of their weaknesses lie.

With Baker Mayfield and the offense having weapons everywhere, maybe the offensive line could get some upgrading, but for most, it's the defense.

Whether it's via free agency or the draft, Tampa Bay has to fill several holes in Todd Bowles' embattled unit.

But where does the franchise start?

For PFF's Max Chadwick, in his latest mock draft, Tampa Bay gets one of the best linebackers in the country, in Ohio State's Sunny Styles.

"Lavonte David finally began to decline at nearly 36 years old this season, but the Buccaneers still have no succession plan at linebacker," Chadwick wrote. "Enter Styles, who was one of only six linebackers in the nation to earn 85.0-plus grades both in coverage and in run defense."

More: How ruthless will Buccaneers be with franchise legend?

Buccaneers need defensive overhaul

One of the big knocks on the defense was the unit allowing big, explosive plays regularly.

We don't often see that from a Bowles defense.

Given the offense is basically set, that could allow Tampa Bay to look at free agency and the draft and load up on defensive players. 

Of course, you never want to draft for need, but the Buccaneers might have to if they want to retake their division back from the Carolina Panthers.

Styles would be a superb get, but I'm unsure if he lasts until No. 15.

Either way, defense has to be the focus this offseason, and if the Buccaneers do manage to snag Sonny, they'll be rolling at linebacker for the next decade.

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Editorial Team