Free agent defensive back Elbert Mack has played so well, he just might make the Bucs.

Joe knows there always is a surprise in training camp, whether it is a veteran player being cut or an unknown player exceeding expectations to make the team.

This year, the latter may be cornerback Elbert Mack. Anwar Richardson of the Tampa Tribune writes how Mack, all of 5-10, 175, who led the NCAA in interceptions last year with eight picks for Troy University, has “a strong possibility” of making the Bucs 53-man roster.

Mack has caught the eye of defensive backs coach Raheem Morris.

“He’s picked it up a lot faster than some draft picks,” Morris said. “He reminds me of Tanard Jackson last year. When Tanard came and we all were kind of like, ‘Wow, he’s close to that one,’ and, ‘Wow, he just missed that one.’ Then, all of a sudden, the preseason started and he started making plays. I’m not going to put any limitations on this kid.”

With the emergence of Mack, Joe thinks the Bucs’ defensive backfield may very well be the team’s strongest position.