The Tampa Bay Buccaneers shocked many this offseason when they selected Ohio State wideout Emeka Egbuka with their first overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Most experts were convinced general manager Jason Licht would pick a defensive player in the first round, since that was clearly an area of focus for the team.
But Licht showed just how high Egbuka was on his board by taking the best player available instead of drafting based on position. And so far, that's worked out nicely.
Licht and the Bucs addressed defense with the next two picks and later in the selection show, and the Egbuka pick was criticized by a few. But he's impressed this offseason as Damian Parson with Bleacher Report points out.
"The praise of his work ethic, high football character and immense talent is a great thing for Buccaneers fans. His time at Ohio State put emphasis on being versatile and learning to share targets with some elite receivers. Egbuka's team-first mentality will fit in well with this talented receiver room," Parson wrote. If the Buccaneers ease Godwin back into action, Egbuka will see plenty of playing time opposite Evans. Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield praised Egbuka's football IQ and said the team could 'plug and play' him in any receiver position.
"If his level of play is similar or elevates when the pads are on, he will secure a major role in the Buccaneers offense."
The Egbuka pick made a little more sense once Licht shed some light (hehe) on the status of Chris Godwin, who suffered a gruesome dislocated ankle in Week 7. Godwin is still recovering and might not be ready to start the season. Ebguka adds some impressive depth to the position and could hold down the fort alongside Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan until Godwin is ready to return.
Either way, the Bucs added what most believe will be an incredible addition to the roster.