Jalen Ramsey-Approved
March 21st, 2018
On Bucs’ radar.
The NFL never sleeps.
Just days after the combine, we are in the throes of Pro Day season, where colleges host showcases for their best players before dozens of NFL eyes, often team suits and coaches.
Monday morning was North Carolina State’s Pro Day with Bill Belicheat and Bucs AC/DC-loving general manager Jason Licht front and center watching Bradley Chubb abuse two tackling dummies. Today is USC’s Pro Day, which will be live on NFL Network at noon.
(The following will irk prized JoeBucsFan.com columnist Ira Kaufman. It drives him mental that NFL Network doesn’t regularly preempt “Good Morning, Football” co-hosted by Kay Adams, for every little thing that might draw 20 pairs of eyeballs. It is partially interesting to Joe that USC’s Pro Day is scheduled right after the west coast feed of “Good Morning, Football” airs.)
Yesterday, Florida State held its Pro Day and there were likely at least two players that had Licht’s attention while he was in Tallahassee: safety Derwin James and defensive end Josh Sweat. From what Joe read on Twitter, running back and St. Petersburg native Ryan Green ran a 4.32 40-yard dash.
Joe knows a few Bucs fans want the Bucs to pick James at No. 7 because, per scuttlebutt, he has the fire that America’s Quarterback, Pro Bowler Jameis Winston, and former FSU teammate Jalen Ramsey have.
In fact, below is NFL Network video of Tom Pelissero interviewing James yesterday with Ramsey, the Jags’ star corner, at his side.
James has some words for his doubters.
After pro day drills, Florida State safety Derwin James tells me “I know I’m the best player in this draft” — and Jalen Ramsey has his back. @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/ULOXgtXXcC
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 20, 2018
March 21st, 2018 at 5:15 am
I wouldnt hate this pick if it were to happen. Imo, he is the type of safety this team needs. James and Justin Evans would be a fun safety duo.
March 21st, 2018 at 5:18 am
JOE,
I’m like a broken record at this point, but I’ll repeat myself as long as the fact remains: we have no pass rush. A defensive backfield comprised of Revis, Reed, Lynch, and Bailey in their primes couldn’t stop the pass behind the Bucs’ (lack of) pass rush.
-Slightly Concerned Bucs fan
March 21st, 2018 at 5:32 am
I don’t know much about the kid but from reading on him the impression I get is that he’s a bit of a boom/bust player and in either case isn’t Ramsey.
March 21st, 2018 at 5:45 am
Joe,
I got LUV for Derwin, but he’s not a true centerfielder like Earl Thomas.
And that’s what our defensive backfield sincerly missing IMO.
That’s why I’m enamored with the potential – of (S) JESSIE BATES (WakeForest).
Potential Safeties
• Jessie Bates <- Ballhawk
• Kyzir White
• Armani Watts
Jessie Bates
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47QKLON7Rgo
March 21st, 2018 at 5:52 am
@Rod Munch
There is no bust in this guy at all do your research and you will see this guy is a top five draft pick. The only reason he is not in the top 5 is because every team is chasing a QB.. Go check the guy out..
March 21st, 2018 at 5:57 am
The only way this kid is a “top 5 “ draft pick is if he’s the next Sean Taylor, RIP.
IDK if we will ever see a player like that again.
I do know the last safety we took in the top 10 wasn’t a center fielder and ended up being a better LB.
I’d consider taking this kid if we could treads back.
Even if Nelson, Barkley, and Chubb are gone by 7. I’d rather take the best CB- Ward in this class.
Who is better, Minkah or Derwin?
It will be so dissapointing if a top 3 prospect is out of our reach at 7. I loved the win to close the season last year, and I’m hoping the jump from picking 5th to 7th doesn’t bite us in the ass.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:02 am
SteveK Derwin is the better safety, Fitzpatrick is more versatile that’s why he is getting more love.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:08 am
SteveK
Best Safeties Of ALL-Time
Ronnie Lott <–THE G.O.A.T
Jack Tatum
Ken Houston
Kenny Easley
Donnie Shell
Cliff Harris
John Lynch
Chuck Cecil
Kam Chancellor
Steve Atwater
David Fulcher
Rodney Harrison
George Atkinson
Bernard Pollard
Blaine Bishop
Bob Sanders
Wes Hopkins
Andre Waters
Deron Cherry
Dennis Smith
Bennie Blades
Passed Away 2 Young
Don Rogers
Sean Taylor
Eric Turner
March 21st, 2018 at 6:10 am
Ed Reed
March 21st, 2018 at 6:11 am
B-Dawk
March 21st, 2018 at 6:12 am
Seriously this is who we need for the sacks to start coming again. The reason the Bucs have no pass rush is because the secondary is not aggressive scheme wise and the Safeties haven’t been aggressive. It’s no coincidence that the Bucs have not had a double digits sack season since John Lynch left town not Simeon Rice. When Lynch left Rice was never the same player and the defense has gotten way less aggressive. James and Sweat should be our top priority at this point.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:16 am
Lynch last season was 2003 – w/Bucs
Simeon Rice
2004 – 12 Sacks
2005 – 14 Sacks
March 21st, 2018 at 6:16 am
What about Sabby?
March 21st, 2018 at 6:17 am
Watched some highlights of both Ward and Kelly. For a player the size of Ronde
Barber Ward really brings the wood. Kelly doesn”t appear as hard a hitter, but his athleticism
in coverage and and ability to turn big plays once he gets his hands on the ball
is impressive. Don’t get to watch Bama enough but the way he runs the ball
after he gets the INT makes me want to see him tryout as a kickoff returner
also.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:19 am
Simeon Rice wasn’t the same – after he screwed up his shoulder.
And didn’t give it the proper time – to heal properly.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:20 am
Lol thanks Luv!
Derwin is a nice player, but he will not answer our pass rush woes. And I agree, if he’s not Earl Thomas or Sean Taylor, than pass.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:23 am
SteveK
Lol no worries
March 21st, 2018 at 6:26 am
Ed Reed is right up there too. The CB from Iowa Josh Jackson is not being talked about in top 10, but is tall, instinctive and is a player. Should be on Bucs Radar for sure, but not getting the hype James, Fitzpatrick, or Ward are getting. If Nelson or Chubb gone at 7, would love to drop back and gather more picks, but takes a team desperate to move up and play ball with us. We could use extra picks in 1st 3 rounds to grab Def starters and an OG.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:27 am
Josh Jackson is legit.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:37 am
NfL doesn’t sleep AND Bucs fans.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:38 am
Jackson intrigues me. Size, skills, measurables.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:45 am
Jackson’s Best Corner in the draft IMO.
March 21st, 2018 at 6:52 am
Give me
Two – 6ft Press Corners
One – Ball Hawking Safety
One – One Thumper In the Box
And you’ll cause havok in this league. It’s a formula that’s tried-and-true.
March 21st, 2018 at 7:02 am
I think Justin Evans would be the rangey, ball hawking free safety with Derwin James as the thumper who can cover 1 on 1 with TEs and RBs.
But if that is the way Licht and the coaches see it then the question needs to be asked. Is the value of a box safety worth a top 10 pick?
March 21st, 2018 at 7:30 am
I would rather look at Kay Adams instead of some ones pro day.
March 21st, 2018 at 7:49 am
But LUV, they say it’s a “passing league”!!!
I’m in agreement. It’s a good formula. We NEED a pass-rush though.
SMH, defense wins championships! Point blank! Try winning one without it.
March 21st, 2018 at 7:49 am
PFT Live every morning NBCSN 7-9 is where real football talk is, not that clown show on NFL Network. But then again no surprise..
Go Bucs!
March 21st, 2018 at 7:56 am
What another FSU dream that will instantly turn this team into a Super Bowl team? No pass on FSU.
March 21st, 2018 at 8:10 am
James reminds me of Eric Barry speaking of great safeties. At this point he or Davenport would be my choice if one of the big 3 don’t drop to us.
March 21st, 2018 at 8:21 am
James in the 1st, Keys in the 2nd Penny in the 3rd
March 21st, 2018 at 8:22 am
Unfortunately we dont have the luxury of picking just any position…..If we dont address specific positions on the team that have higher priority/impact, we cant expect the product to change much. WE NEED A PHYSICAL RUNNING GAME…..Safety isn’t going to help us put points on the board or force pressure on QBs to make bad decisions. WE NEED PRESSURE FROM THE D-LINE…..Safety doesn’t create that. If we dont address the glaring needs, nothing is going to change. I’ll continue to say, the offense is the closest to being dominant, make it the priority with upgrades at o-line or RB…There’s two premier players staring at us with several serviceable options available through the 2nd rd……Lets walk away from this draft with a box finally checked so we can see if Mr Magoo is worth his #1 pick. If he cant succeed with an established running game, then he’s nothing more then a game manager
March 21st, 2018 at 8:22 am
James next to Evans, Keys next to Spence, and Penny the beast
March 21st, 2018 at 8:24 am
One MAJOR difference:
As much as Joe loves Mike Florio, Kay Adams is way hotter.
March 21st, 2018 at 8:26 am
with the center we just picked up and moving Marpet back to guard we are good on the line. This draft is full of great running backs.
March 21st, 2018 at 8:28 am
James is a fantastic safety.
But again- we werent 32nd defense in the league- because of safety.
And even a fantastic Safety wont lift us out of last place
Licht and Koetter have neglected the Pass rush so long now- that its to the point that the draft isnt the answer. You draft a great Rookie DE- it takes him 2-3 years to develop.
McCoy might be gone by then. Can we waste ANOTHER 3 years of Jameis career?
We probably should be trying to trade the 7th pick, for a young DE
March 21st, 2018 at 8:39 am
Luv
You my man bro but Atwater is way too low on your list. Dude was devastating
March 21st, 2018 at 8:41 am
Jonzey17
Bucs are not good on the line no starting caliber RT on roster and hole at LG not too mention shaky LT
March 21st, 2018 at 8:53 am
People need to realize that Ramsey actually had a defensive coordinator in pruitt. Derwin had charles kelly who was in over his head. If DJ3 had pruitt this wouldn’t be a conversation. Please do not think for a minute that this kid is not in the same stratosphere as ramsey. You’d be wrong.
March 21st, 2018 at 8:58 am
@ Joe……
And Rachel Watson will be hanging out with you at the Draft Day party too right?…was well aware of the Adams commentary prior to making the comment. Hey, boys and their toys right…
Go Bucs!
March 21st, 2018 at 9:25 am
i wouldn’t mind derwin……him and j.evans would make a nice duo……but idk about drafting him at #7…..
#NOEXCUSESIN2018!!!!!!….NOPASSESIN2018!!!!!!…..GO BUCS!!!!!!!
March 21st, 2018 at 9:26 am
The only reason Davenport is mocked to us is we have no pass rush but no one is calling him a top ten pick so if he’s the best available on your board you could do worse James like oh say drafting a slot corner vh3 in the top ten.
If Winston can’t score points to keep up with the teams in our division you need safety and corners. If Chubb I’d gone there is no other top ten defensive end impact player. The bucs will have an average pass rush with or without Chubb if we are being realistic fans
March 21st, 2018 at 9:29 am
Derwin is very similar to Eric Berry, who was drafted fifth overall in the mccoy draft. The chiefs defense ranked 29th before they drafted him and was 11th in his rookie season. Versatile, freak athlete safeties can have a huge impact on the defense if used properly.
March 21st, 2018 at 9:29 am
WE HAVE NO PASS RUSH – THE END
March 21st, 2018 at 9:39 am
Who’s more versatile than Derwin? Cmon. Guy could and basically did play every position on defense at one point. He’s the Buster Posey type, plug him anywhere, and we all know how passing on a player like that can leave a franchise, thanks Rays….Steve Palazollo of PFF said James is a better pass rusher on the edge than Bradley Chubb…I didn’t say d end but a pure rusher, exactly what we would need out of a safety, maybe we’ll blitz?! Harold Landry has almost identical stats measurables as Chubb and he did great on a worse team. Chubb has multiple other lineman getting drafted. He’s great i’d Take him for sure but Derwin is special. Started as a freshman, made big plays and a few mental errors on a poorly coached defense sometimes but Ramsey did plenty of times too in college. No we aren’t gonna use another top 12 pick on a tiny comer and hope and pray he can handle guys like Julio Jones. James Is a 10 yr player and unless another 10 year guy like Nelson is there then he seems like a no brained.
March 21st, 2018 at 9:42 am
Cleveland should draft Saquon Barkley and Bradley Chubb…Bookend DEs Myles Garrett..RBs Saquon Barkley, Carlos Hyde.
**Most 1st round QBs are huge busts**
Wasn’t the 2018 Super Bowl a classic?
Great game from the 3rd round QB and the 6th round QB
Derwin James is a BEAST…you can’t go wrong with him
March 21st, 2018 at 9:51 am
LakeLand gets it…
Will Cain did the math on first round qbs…50% of the time you get an RG3 or Bortles, 30% you get an Alex Smith (three teams so far mind you) the rest are ultimate boom or bust. So at best your chances at an Alex smith caliber player is around 30% and close to 1% for someone like Rodgers
March 21st, 2018 at 9:58 am
Since 2000, 48 QBs has been drafted in the 1st round,
7 of them has led their teams to the Super Bowl
And that QB drafted in the 6th round in 2000
7 Super Bowls
March 21st, 2018 at 10:29 am
If Bradley Chubb is off the board at 7 we need to take a serious look at Marcus Davenport.
6’6″, 264 lbs, 4.58 40 time, 124″ broad jump. This kid will be a force of the edge.
I’ve had FSU fans tell me James was a good player but under performed.
March 21st, 2018 at 10:46 am
If Nelson is available at 7 it’s a no brainer. That line would flat dominate . We have never really had a big nasty dominate O line. If Chubb and Barkley are both gone(they will be at 7) you have to go Nelson as a day one starter. Not a flashy pick but a definite upgrade and long term investment that will solidify that o line. One safety is not gonna cut it ,or one future edge rusher who is athletic and could be dominate with the right coach and system.Get a nasty front and draft guice, or Michel and take pressure off JW..Then draft all defense. All I can think about as far as either of the 2 mocked safeties is flashbacks of barr
March 21st, 2018 at 10:47 am
If Nelson is available at 7 it’s a no brainer. That line would flat dominate . We have never really had a big nasty dominate O line. If Chubb and Barkley are both gone(they will be at 7) you have to go Nelson as a day one starter. Not a flashy pick but a definite upgrade and long term investment that will solidify that o line. One safety is not gonna cut it ,or one future edge rusher who is athletic and could be dominate with the right coach and system.Get a nasty front and draft guice, or Michel and take pressure off JW..Then draft all defense. All I can think about as far as the 2 mocked safeties is flashbacks of Barron..
March 21st, 2018 at 10:49 am
Ed Reed = GOAT
March 21st, 2018 at 11:44 am
Jman55- Not ahead of Ronnie Lott and Steve Atwater, IMO. Great player though!
March 21st, 2018 at 12:12 pm
Those are great too. I just prefer Reed
March 21st, 2018 at 12:13 pm
If Chubb, Nelson gone they you take best available. You add talent to the defense because next year with will have new coaching and GM who will have their shot to fix the pass rush
March 21st, 2018 at 12:16 pm
*******************
LAKELAND,
I just don’t understand your position at all … you say most first round QBs are busts … that is NOT true, but even if it were true, nearly ALL non 1st round QBs end up as career backups or out of the league in short order!
Now, here is a breakdown of first round QBs in the last 20 drafts (1998-2017):
Manning
Leaf = BUST
Couch = BUST
McNabb
Akili = BUST
Culpepper
McNown = BUST
Pennington
Vick
Brees
Carr = BUST
Harrington = BUST
Ramsey = BUST
Palmer
Leftwich = BUST
Boller =BUST
Grossman = BUST
Manning
Rivers
Roethlisberger
Losman = BUST
Smith
Rodgers
Campbell
Young = BUST
Leinart = BUST
Cutler
Jamarcus = BUST
Quinn = BUST
Ryan
Flacco
Stafford =
Sanchez = BUST
Freeman = BUST
Bradford
TeBow = BUST
Cam
Locker = BUST
Gabbert = BUST
Ponder = BUST
Luck
RG3
Tannehill
Weedon = BUST
Manuel = BUST
Bortles
Manziel = BUST
Bridgewater
Jameis
Mariota
Goff
Wentz
Lynch = BUST SO FAR
Trubisky = too early to tell
Mahomes = too early to tell
Watson
There have been (56) QBs drafted in the 1st round of the past 20 drafts … here’s the break-down:
Non-Busts: (29)
Busts: (25)
Too Early to Tell: (2)
Guaranteed HOF’ers: 6 (11%)
Potential Future HOF’ers: 6+
So, taking out the (2) “too early to tell guys”, there have been 25 busts out of 54 QBs, for a bust rate of 46.3% and a success rate of 53.7%.
Again, if the Browns don’t draft a QB with one of their first two picks, that is a fireable offense for the GM!
*******************
March 21st, 2018 at 12:32 pm
Are you guys like 12? How does Larry Wilson get left off the list? Retired as the GOAT, first year unanimous induction, lauded by Kramer in his book as the best player in the NFL, on 94 all time first team, still the GOAT.
March 21st, 2018 at 12:50 pm
Yeah, add Larry Wilson and Chris Conte to that list for sure …. HAHAHAHAHAHA
March 21st, 2018 at 12:53 pm
D Pewter- FSU guy here, our Defensive Coordinator was freaking terrible. Everybody got a little worse in his defense. toward the end of the year, James was put all over the field and that is when he really excelled. Every pre-game the coaches we were playing would say how they have to know where #3 is at all times. Mc Fadden had a terrible year because he played with no heart because he it looked like he didn’t want to get hurt. He probably cost himself a lot of money by doing that. James came to play every game. It took the coaches 6 games to realize how to use him. Having said that, 7 IMO is too high, if we can trade back to 12 or 15 and get him-fine, but I would take him over a project DE any day at 7. I think Fitzpatrick will be a great pro- I think James will be an absolute difference maker.
Safeties from FSU the last few years, L Joyner, J Ramsey and D James- not bad.
March 21st, 2018 at 12:57 pm
I remember a safty here that changed.games and had no help from the DLine. It made me sick that he got run out the league for smoking pot.
I belive his name was Tanard Jackson.
Best safety that never was.
March 21st, 2018 at 2:01 pm
JJBucFan we do agree on one thing, trading back to the 12-15 should yield extra draft picks and still land someone who can help out our pass defense.
March 21st, 2018 at 2:09 pm
JAB83
Tanard Jackson was awesome and is greatly missed! However if the league told me to stop smoking or I won’t be able to do what I love and lose millions I would just stop smoking.
The rules are the same for everyone in the league, he ran himself out.
March 21st, 2018 at 2:22 pm
Yup. The bong (allegedly) was too important to put down than making millions of dollars setting up himself and his family for life. Oh, well. Can lead a horse to water but can’t make him drink.
March 21st, 2018 at 2:39 pm
Sweat is a beast. Where’s he projected?
March 21st, 2018 at 5:25 pm
^ Josh Sweat is projected to go no earlier than the 3rd round and possibly as low as the 5th round … I’d consider him in the 4th
March 21st, 2018 at 7:06 pm
Luvmybucs, wrong!you build a defense from the front to the back!it all starts in the trenches.without a pass rush,I don’t care who you have in the secondary they are toast in the NFL!