Oklahoma Linebacker Dan Stutsman Doesn’t Seem Like A Todd Bowles Fit
March 28th, 2025
Would fans fire up a cigar if the Bucs drafted Oklahoma ILB Danny Stutsman?
Although it is a very good bet the following won’t happen, Joe wouldn’t lose sleep if the Bucs select a defensive player with every pick they have next month.
And it seems Jordan Plocher of the PFF tribe thinks the same thing. In fact, he believes the Bucs need help at linebacker so much that they soon will draft two inside linebackers who will someday start.
The first one is this Jihaad Campbell from Alabama. Campbell had shoulder surgery right after the combine, and Joe sees people, both credible and not-so-credible, confident Campbell will be on the board when the Bucs draft at No. 19.
Plocher thinks on Day 3, the Bucs draft their second linebacker of the weekend, Danny Stutsman out of Oklahoma.
Joe isn’t seeing Stutsman as a fit for a Todd Bowles defense. He’s more like an old-school, 43-front middle linebacker.
From what Joe can tell, Stutsman is a smart, fast and hustling dude. But when he needs to rely on his speed and athletic ability and strength, he’s not all that special.
Stutsman ran his 40-yard dash in 4.52 seconds. So perhaps speed kills? It doesn’t appear that Stutsman is that great in pass coverage. That’s why Joe isn’t sure if the guy is a Bowles fit.
If the Bucs are going to draft a linebacker on Day 3, Joe thinks they ought to consider a late flyer on Nick Martin of Oklahoma State. He’s quick (4.53 in 40) and in 2023, his first year as a starter, he was a tackling machine with 140 tackles (83 solo). Martin also had a pair of picks.
He missed most of last year with a knee injury, so no question he will slip in the draft. With some coaching, he could be an excellent value pick.
And since we’re dealing with inside linebackers in this here post, Joe spoke earlier this week with JoeBucsFan.com draft guru Sean Sullivan, general manager of Bill Currie Ford. While reading comments on a story Joe wrote about South Carolina linebacker Demetrius Knight, Sullivan was triggered when Knight was referred to as another K.J. Britt. Sullivan told Joe that’s a preposterous comp.)
Best In Class Examines Linebacker Prospects
March 28th, 2025 at 7:57 am
We need an ILB with the speed of DW45 but without the mental issues.
March 28th, 2025 at 7:57 am
Is pass coverage a skill that can be taught?
March 28th, 2025 at 7:58 am
Another tough kid coming out of Oklahoma flashing moxie! Take him. We have all now witnessed how far moxie can take us and the ride is just starting. We need more of that stuff. Go Bucs
March 28th, 2025 at 8:06 am
Missed tackles the past three seasons:
2024 – 15
2023 – 11
2022 – 22
Sorry I don’t like ILBs who miss tackles…
March 28th, 2025 at 8:09 am
It’s interesting given this kids size, and yes, you are correct JBF, doesn’t fit the Todd Bowles ILB type of measurables, still like the pick though. He could be a handful on blitzes.
March 28th, 2025 at 8:30 am
How about that big safety everybody’s talking about that played for South Carolina(?).
Could he move to LB?
March 28th, 2025 at 8:31 am
The man is impressive fundamentally and something our D lacks is fundamental tackling and Stutsman brings that. His lack of pass coverage skills does concern me but he’s so much more than Britt who moved like a stiff joystick. We need fundamental aggression!
March 28th, 2025 at 8:42 am
JihaAd warrior and party boy Dan. Two opposites personality wise. Dont forget pass rushers such as the Ohio State kid.
March 28th, 2025 at 8:43 am
All D draft? Sounds tasty, but I won’t be bothered if they grab an o-lineman to cross train and another toy for Grizz to scheme up plays for (like Achane). He’s going to need more than just Palmer to take the lid off, and you can never have too much speed on offense.
March 28th, 2025 at 8:54 am
Speed can’t be taught and you need that in pass coverage. We’ve had enough LBs being dragged down the field.
March 28th, 2025 at 9:16 am
Shaun Dolac out of University of Buffalo (Khalil Mack’s alma mater) could be an interesting late round UDFA. I believe he led FBS in tackles last season and his pro day measures were almost an exact clone of Kwan Alexander- pretty athletic.
March 28th, 2025 at 9:31 am
I just want to clarify Joe, are we taking two injured ILB?
March 28th, 2025 at 9:35 am
So Stutsman isn’t fast (4.52) but the other guy is (4.53). They said the same thing about Luke Keuchly until he ran a sub 4.6 40 and took the league by storm.
March 28th, 2025 at 9:45 am
If he can drop into an empty zone and stay at least 10 yards from the nearest receiver, he’s a perfect fit.
March 28th, 2025 at 10:02 am
Joe,
I think that you have called it correctly on Stutsman.
While Jalon Walker if he is there, or Jihaad Campbell should be the Bucs first pick.
OSU ILB Colling Oliver would be an interesting seventh round pick or priority free agent/. At 6’2″, 240#, with a 4.56 forty. He has been mostly used as an Edge rusher and an ILB run attacker, he seems to have the a lot of untapped potential in pass coverage making him a potential 3 down #2 ILB or at least a high floor backup.
March 28th, 2025 at 10:38 am
Mock Draft with a trade down to Detroit done on PFF
1. **Nick Emmanwori (S, South Carolina – 28)**: The Bucs need to bolster their secondary, and Emmanwori is a fantastic selection. With his ability to play both safety and cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game, he would provide versatility and athleticism to an improving defensive backfield.
2. **Maxwell Hairston (CB, Kentucky – 53)**: Another key position that could use some strengthening is cornerback, and Hairston offers the kind of high upside the Buccaneers need. A physical, fast cornerback with ball skills, he can step in immediately to challenge for playing time, especially with a talented but aging secondary.
3. **Darien Porter (CB, Iowa State – 126)**: Adding another cornerback, Porter offers depth and potential as a developmental piece. He has shown solid coverage skills at Iowa State and could be a great project to further solidify the Bucs’ secondary long term.
4. **Joshua Farmer (DT, Florida State – 157)**: With the need for defensive line depth, Farmer is an ideal fit. He has the size, strength, and technique to contribute immediately in a rotational role, offering solid run defense and pass rush potential. This pick provides necessary depth on the interior defensive line.
5. **Danny Stutsman (LB, Oklahoma – 182)**: Linebacker depth is a priority for the Buccaneers, and Stutsman brings great coverage ability and athleticism. He could become an immediate special teams contributor while also working his way into the linebacker rotation.
6. **Jeffrey Bassa (LB, Oregon)**: Another linebacker, Bassa excels in coverage, which would complement the Bucs’ defensive system. His ability to play sideline to sideline and contribute in the passing game would further solidify their defensive front seven.
7. **Cam Jackson (DT, Florida – 235)**: The Bucs can’t have enough depth on their defensive line, and Jackson provides additional power and athleticism. At 6’6” and 300 pounds, he can contribute against the run and as a pass rusher, adding to the Bucs’ defensive line rotation.
8. **Zah Frazier (CB, UTSA)**: Frazier is another high-potential cornerback with good length and coverage skills. His addition would provide depth at the position, and he could develop into a solid contributor in the future.
9. **Johnny Walker (EDGE, Missouri)**: With a need for depth at edge rusher, Walker fits the bill. He is a raw, but talented, pass rusher with a high motor. As a developmental player, he offers future upside to complement the current pass-rush unit.
Overall, this draft would be a massive win for the Buccaneers, addressing multiple key areas while taking advantage of talent that falls to them at each pick. With additions in the secondary, defensive line, and linebacker positions, the Bucs could see an immediate improvement in both their defense and overall team depth. This draft would not only fill immediate needs but also set up the Bucs for continued success in the years to come.
March 28th, 2025 at 10:41 am
I’m honestly just about done with this platform. It seems like anytime I post something that requires thought or offers an in-depth perspective, the algorithm automatically blocks it for no apparent reason. This site just isn’t what it used to be. There’s nothing controversial or inappropriate in my post—it’s just a mock draft that discusses the merits of selecting players like Danny Stutsman or Jeffrey Bassa in the third round. It’s a simple and reasoned draft analysis, yet it gets flagged. This site has become incredibly frustrating to use.
March 28th, 2025 at 10:56 am
As an Oklahoma sooner myself, I can tell you that Stutsman has tremendous instincts, a nose for the ball, and actually had several interceptions during his college career a couple of which he took back for pick sixes so he actually is pretty good in coverage. If he is available on day three I think he would be fantastic. Nick Martin from Oklahoma State is also a fantastic athlete as well. I would be happy with either of those two.
March 28th, 2025 at 10:59 am
If Bowels is hoping for someone to one day replace David as the leader of the defense, Stutsman might be that guy. He was the heart and soul of Oklahomas defense. To give you an idea of what kind of a young man he is, he gave the guys on the team that weren’t on scholarship $50,000 of his NIL money. Oklahoma is going through a complete retooling and instead of going pro he stayed an additional year at Oklahoma because Coach Venebles needed him to be the glue of his defense. He is a first class guy and most likely will one day be an NFL great. Plus he’s a Floridian
March 28th, 2025 at 11:09 am
Fred Warner is same size as Stutsman 6-3 @ 235lbs but runs a 4.6 instead of Stutsmans 4.5. And Warner has been All-Pro 4 years out of his 7 in the league. So his speed shouldn’t be a problem.
March 28th, 2025 at 11:52 am
I knew he wasn’t a Bowles guy the moment I read he was smart.
Sounds like this guy has a never ending motor on the field and all heart off the field.
Just the type of personality needed to foster a winning mentality.
Not just a back door into the playoffs and be happy with a first round loss mentality.
28-27
March 28th, 2025 at 12:27 pm
I can’t believe the number of folks who are all in on drafting Campbell at #19. He’s damaged goods. It’s turning into the ‘hope’ off season…we hope Campbell can recover…we hope Godwin returns to form…we hope Reddick reverts back to himself. That’s a lot of hope going on. Nothing is a sure thing in the draft but let’s lessen the risk by passing on injured players in the 1st round. I know if I’m looking for a new smart TV I’m not calling Amazon and asking what ya got that’s broke.
March 28th, 2025 at 12:47 pm
BayouBullet for the win.
I concur 1000% percent sir.
Crap in one hand and hope in another. See which hand is filled first.
The last thing we need for an injury riddled roster is more injured players.
But some people just want to do the same things and expect different results.
March 28th, 2025 at 12:51 pm
If Bowles wants ballhawks, Danny is your guy! Always seems to be where the ball is, watch some tape!
March 28th, 2025 at 1:03 pm
Douche.
March 28th, 2025 at 1:23 pm
Next Article? … The Bucs and Ju’whaun Bentley…
March 28th, 2025 at 1:32 pm
We’re not drafting Campbell.
March 28th, 2025 at 1:41 pm
I love the idea of getting guys in rounds 5-7 who dropped because of injuries.
Or guys who are physical freaks but need 2 years to redshirt and evolve.
McMillan was a steak in the 3rd.
If Jihad drops, we must take him.
We don’t need him to start this season.
We don’t need any starters at all
Did you guys see the 430 pound DT from Florida?
We need this guy as Vea’s sub.
Imagine Vea rotating with a guy who is 6-6 and 430?
We need a NT badly!!!
Vea just doesn’t have the stamina.
We need a great backup NT.
Gaines is too small. He’s a DT. Not a NT.
March 28th, 2025 at 1:42 pm
So the guy who ran a 4.52 40 isn’t fast but the guy who ran a 4.53 is in your words Joe
March 28th, 2025 at 4:16 pm
it’s never bad to add a dude with a tude to your roster
March 28th, 2025 at 4:56 pm
Stutsman is better than Martin.
March 28th, 2025 at 5:08 pm
Joe would rather have a LB who missed last season with a knee injury then an old school MLB? Todd probably does too, that’s why our defense sucks. We need some dudes, with tudes! The guy has a personality, that won’t mesh with Todd who doesn’t have a persnality. Bucs could use an old school type of player.
March 28th, 2025 at 5:59 pm
I’ve been saying all offseason that we need 2 ILBs, even if Lavonte came back, which thank god he did.
SVD simply can’t be counted on to stay healthy, and I highly doubt LVD plays beyond this season… so yes, we need 2 ILBs still.
March 28th, 2025 at 7:31 pm
I would like an all defensive draft but Licht picks a WR and a small school o line dude every year and I see no reason that won’t continue.
March 28th, 2025 at 9:26 pm
Lavonte David ran 4.65 at the combine. Devin White 4.42. Which one would you rather have?? Speed isn’t everything.
March 28th, 2025 at 10:00 pm
Get the Joes in the draft room. Stutsman is indeed a talent but a misfit with the Bucs and Nick Martin had the fastest 3 cone at the combine. That time projects a defensive player’s potential value far better than his 40 but no time or other combine measure matter more than play speed. If the Bucs don’t trade down I’ll take Malaki Starks and his unimpressive combine metrics over Campbell even if Jihaad had a clean bill of health. StickinUp4Centers is right- enough fawning over and projecting Campbell to the Bucs already. He is clunky. Bassa has like 10 times the snaps he does under his belt (no injuries) and Teddye Buchanan jumps off the screen in his film. Starks is like lightning playing downhill with menace blowing up screens and basic runs. He is the force one hopes to get from a boss ILB in a safety/nickel/Bowles fantasy form that has ball hawk potential. All that is just side hustle to him. He is a coverage stud first. I was taken by Emmanwori early in the process but man is he top heavy and how did Marc Barron work out?
Stop sleeping on Deion Jones. He is like Reddick a bit in that he was Pro Bowl/top 5 at his position for years then something happened. He opted out of the COVID season, then went to the Frank Reich Panthers, then the Browns (see that inverse Baker history) then got cut by the Bills before their final worthless preseason game. He balled out vs. the Comanches in the playoffs and got a Bowles hat tip for it as well as a futures contract and is only 30. ILB is a need that I agree deserves two picks this year but there is no need to drop prime picks on it.
March 28th, 2025 at 10:27 pm
Mark my words! Danny Stutsman is THE best ILB in this draft! He will be a stud for team that drafts him for the next decade or so!
March 28th, 2025 at 11:34 pm
Like Chad says. The teams that don’t take Danny Stutsman will regret it!
He’s got all the tools! Maybe he’s getting penalized for getting to so many ball carriers and getting a hand on them. He’s had over 100 tackles 3 years in a row.
March 29th, 2025 at 6:48 am
Nice thought but yeah yet another of the experts having a brain furt.Sounds more like our old LB Barrett Ruud. Tough dude but too slowwwww. Bassa?
Go Bucs!