Louisville defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins is being eyed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a potential target at No. 9, according to Fox Sports’ Mike Garafolo.
NYG/Floyd I believe to be real. Potential curveball: Rankins to Tampa at 9. Gonna depend how some things fall. https://t.co/1Mcu4jVmJ1
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) April 27, 2016
This is an interesting theory, as the Bucs already have a fairly strong defense up front, namely in defensive tackle Gerald McCoy. However, he cannot carry the load by himself and Rankins has proven to be great at creating interior pressure. In four years with the Cardinals, he posted 133 tackles (31.5 for a loss), 18 sacks, two fumble recoveries and even two interceptions. At 6-foot-2, 303 pounds, his athleticism speaks for itself.
But it is also worth noting that the Bucs have greater needs than defensive tackle, and turning down a top cornerback like Vernon Hargreaves III at No. 9 could be tough. On top of that, Rankins could be a slight reach at No. 9 despite his overall talent.
Simply put, with Draft Day tomorrow, expect the unexpected and stay tuned to Campus Sports for further updates on this story!
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*Featured Photo (above) credit to USA TODAY Sports
