Meet Cory Boyd

Running back S.C., 6-1, 213 Round 7, 238th pick
Highlights/stats
Racked up 2,267 yards rushing and 1,303 receiving, joining Stanley Pritchett as the only Gamecocks to surpass 1,000 in both. … Was a bright spot in a struggling offense, rushing for 17 touchdowns over his final two seasons.
THE VERDICT
Boyd is a physical, inside runner and solid receiver out of the backfield. Far from flashy, he doesn’t have that high-end speed (4.52 seconds in the 40-yard dash) but is hard to bring down. He bounced back from a one-year suspension in 2005 to start 24 consecutive games for coach Steve Spurrier. General manager Bruce Allen said he likes Boyd’s production.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Meet Geno Hayes

Linebacker FSU, 6-1, 226 Round 6, 175th pick
Highlights/stats
Finished 2007 with 80 tackles, second-most for FSU, and his career with 156 in 35 games (21 starts). … Scored two touchdowns, on a punt block and 38-yard interception return. … Played same position and wore same number as former Seminole Derrick Brooks.
THE VERDICT
His stock was hurt dramatically by character concerns stemming from a nightclub altercation with police that resulted in three charges. Hayes met the terms of a pretrial diversion program this year to resolve the matter. Linebacker is, arguably, the Bucs’ deepest unit. But Hayes could make the team through special teams.

(Times photo -- Scott Keeler. Click to enlarge.)

Meet Josh Johnson

Quarterback San Diego, 6-3, 198 Round 5, 160
Highlights/stats
Dominated the competition at I-AA San Diego, which doesn’t offer scholarships. … Passed for 9,699 yards with 113 touchdowns. … As a senior, threw 43 touchdowns and one interception. … Named most valuable player of the East-West Shrine game.
THE VERDICT
The Bucs have the luxury of developing Johnson for the future. He won’t play right away, but he also won’t be confused by the lengthy terminology of the West Coast offense, having played in a similar system under former NFL quarterback Jim Harbaugh. Johnson has the arm and athletic ability to be an NFL starter.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Meet Dre Moore

Defensive tackle Maryland, 6-4, 305 Round 4, 115th pick
Highlights/stats
2007’s six sacks were the most by a Terp since Shawne Merriman’s 81/2 in 2004. … Had a career-high 10 tackles and two sacks Oct. 20 against Virginia while lined up against Branden Albert, who went 15th overall to the Chiefs.
THE VERDICT
Moore is still a raw talent, having begun playing varsity football only in his senior year of high school. He is a rare athlete for his position, a quality that means Moore is probably better-suited to play the more critical under tackle position. Jovan Haye currently starts there, but the Bucs want increased competition and an improved pass rush from the interior of the line.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Meet Jeremy Zuttah

Guard/Tackle Rutgers, 6-4, 303, Round 3, 83rd pick
Highlights/stats
Four-year starter anchored the offensive line with 28 straight starts at right tackle. … Did not allow a sack as Scarlet Knights ranked second in I-A in 2007 and first in 2006 in sacks allowed. … Went 698 pass plays without allowing a sack.
THE VERDICT
The Bucs have invested a lot of high draft picks in the offensive line in the past three seasons. They came within one choice in the first round of taking Pittsburgh left tackle Jeff Otah, who went 19th to Carolina. Zuttah is solid and can be a swing guy who can play guard or tackle. Eventually, the Bucs could move Jeremy Trueblood to left tackle, his natural position at Boston College, and play Zuttah at right tackle.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Aqib Talib highlights

Wondering what in the world the Bucs have in Aqib Talib?

Click on this Youtube link and you'll find that he's not only a pretty good cornerback but also a gymnast. His 5-yard somersault is rather impressive. There are a few more highlights of him as well on the right-hand column if you're interested.

We'll hear more from him shortly as he is preparing for a 10 a.m. press conference at One Buc Place.

Bucs will have to send a QB or two packing

The drafting of San Diego quarterback Josh Johnson in the fifth round means the Bucs will have to part with at least a veteran passer or two.

For the first time Sunday, coach Jon Gruden admitted the obvious. The Bucs will have to say good-bye to some quarterbacks. Although he did not elaborate, the most likely candidates to be traded or released are Chris Simms and Bruce Gradkowski.

   Including Jake Plummer, the Bucs own the rights to seven QBs -- Jeff Garcia, Brian Griese, Simms, Gradkowski, Luke McCown and Johnson.

   "No, we won't take six (to training camp),'' Gruden said. "There will be obvious decisions that will be made. There's been a lot of people saying we have six quarterbacks. I haven't seen (Jake) Plummer yet and Chris unfortunately hasn't played the last couple years. So we have had a tremendous amount of injury. We're not like some of these teams that have enjoyed the good fortune of having the same starter for five, six, eight, 12, 15 seasons. We've had three different starters play I think in four of the last five seasons.

   "Here in Tampa, we have a different perspective on the position. But we do have a Pro Bowl returner at quarterback and we're really excited about Garcia. We think Griese has proven he can play here. Luke McCown came on last year and did some good things. So here comes a youngster in here. We're going to have I don't know how many quarterbacks.''

   General manager Bruce Allen said the Bucs plan to take five quarterbacks to training camp.

   

Bucs take South Carolina RB in 7th

The Bucs likely wrapped up their draft selections by picking South Carolina RB Cory Boyd in the seventh round, 238th overall.

Boyd, a 6-foot-1, 214-pounder is considered a physical, inside runner with strong ball-catching skills out of the backfield; the Gamecocks' quiet offensive leader racked up 2,267 career rushing yards, 1,303 receiving yards.

In the last two years, he's racked up 17 TDs, coming on strong after returning from a one-year suspension in 2005.

We'll be talking to Jon Gruden in a second, so we'll have more updates shortly.

- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

FSU's Geno Hayes to the Bucs

Florida State's Geno Hayes just went to the Bucs with the 175th pick, and we suddenly had flashbacks to another FSU outside linebacker once drafted by the Bucs: Derrick Brooks.

Okay, maybe that's a little premature. But the 6-1, 226-pound Hayes did play weak-side linebacker for the Seminoles and was an All-ACC selection after ranking second on the team in tackles with 80.

His final season was somewhat overshadowed by off-the-field character issues stemming from an arrest from a nightclub altercation with police that resulted in three misdemeanor charges. Hayes completed a pre-trial diversion program earlier this year.

(Times photo -- Scott Keeler. Click to enlarge.)

Gruden's got a QB

Well, Jon Gruden certainly is a happy man.

He finally got an offensive toy to play with it: University of San Diego quarterback Josh Johnson, one of the more intriguing late-round picks.

Johnson put up prolific numbers at San Diego, throwing for 43 touchdowns and one interception in 2007. Johnson also is one of the more athletic quarterbacks you'll ever see, running a 4.4-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, first among quarterbacks.

Johnson, the MVP of the East-West Shrine all-star game, led the nation in total offense in pass efficiency and points responsible for. He also was once coached by current Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh.

Bucs personnel executive Doug Williams took an interest in Johnson and has been an advocate for him throughout the pre-draft process. Jon Gruden also has expressed how impressed he was by Johnson's resume and the Bucs also conducted a private workout with Johnson last month.

And no mention of the Bucs adding a quarterback would be complete without a head count. For those keeping track, that's seven now on the roster: Jeff Garcia, Brian Griese, Luke McCown, Chris Simms, Bruce Gradkowski , Jake Plummer and, now, Johnson. Needless to say, they won't all be here on opening day. The addition of Johnson just adds to the intrigue.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Another trade to report

One more move by the Bucs.

They've traded their 153rd pick to New England, receiving the 160th (fifth round) and 238th (seventh round) picks in exchange.

This gives the Bucs a pick in each round. Now, this is exciting. Yippee!

Bucs trade up to get Maryland DT

The Bucs moved up five picks in the fourth round in a trade with Chicago, to 115 overall, to select Maryland DT Dre Moore.

The 6-foot-4, 311-pound Moore is a quick interior lineman (4.8 40-yard dash) considered one of the strongest in Maryland history (when that past includes Shawne Merriman, it's pretty impressive). Moore can stuff the run and rush the passer; his six sacks last season were the most by a Terp since Merriman (8.5); Moore had 17.5 career tackles for loss.

Moore is apparently a late-bloomer, having only played one year of varsity football after Independence High (Charlotte, NC) coach Tommy Knotts spotted his huge frame in the hall and convinced him to try out. At Independence, Moore played with former Florida quarterback Chris Leak.

More about Moore to come. In the trade with Chicago, the Bucs gave up picks No. 120 and No. 158, but netted pick No. 175 in the sixth round.

The Bucs still have their original fifth-rounder, which is No. 153.

-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com

(Photo: Maryland's Dre Moore, right, chases Florida State quarterback Drew Weatherford. AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Bucs pick Rutgers guard in third round

The Bucs selected Rutgers guard Jeremy Zuttah in the third round Sunday. He also could play center or tackle.

The 6-foot-3, 306 pound Zuttah played all three positions during his four-year career with the Scarlet Knights, starting 28 straight games at right tackle.   

The selection of Zuttah continues the Bucs commitment to building the offensive line. He graduated in December with a degree in economics.

The Bucs likely expect Zuttah to be a swing player who can start at multiple positions. Tampa Bay already has two high round picks at guard - Davin Joseph (first-rounder in '06) and Arron Sears (second-rounder in '07). The Bucs signed Saints free agent Jeff Faine in the off-season.

""I'm very physically mature but I'm only 21-years old,'' Zuttah said. ""I'm strong, I'm fast, I think I'm physically ready. It's just how fast I can learn the system. That's also one of my strengths, my intelligence, so I can learn it quickly. I guess the speed of the game will be different, too.''

(Photo: Jeremy Zuttah, bottom right, did not allow a sack over his final two college seasons. AP Photo. Click to enlarge.)

Details from the war room

Just got done with a post-draft nightcap and can't sleep. So, naturally, I figured I'd blog.

Got some interesting tidbits to share on some of the details from inside the draft room at One Buc Place.

For one, I hear it was a close call between Aqib Talib and Mike Jenkins. The Bucs appeared to be enamored with Talib's size (he's over 6-1 and weighs 202 pounds) and were drawn to his slight edge as a bigger playmaker. Either way, they liked both. One other thing: I'll go against the grain here and give the Bucs the benefit of the doubt when it comes to drafting a defender this high. Monte Kiffin, if history is an indicator, won't screw this up. They haven't missed on many defenders on the first day (i.e. Kelly, Barber).

Regarding their decision not to draft a receiver in the first round, it's my understanding that Devin Thomas did have a first-round grade where the Bucs were concerned, but it appears he was lower on their board than the cornerbacks. They also concluded he didn't have a big enough body of work to be a safe pick after only one season playing at a high level.

One thing that nearly happened was the Bucs picking an offensive tackle. Had Jeff Otah fallen to them (he went one spot earlier to Carolina), he might have become a Buc. Tampa Bay had identified tackle as the deepest position and regarded most of the first-round tackles and potential long-term starters with star potential.

Lastly, the rumored Jason Taylor deal might have continued to gain steam as the day wore on, but I'm told the Bucs didn't spend a lot of time considering the possibility. I don't doubt there was a conversation even though Dolphins G.M. Jeff Ireland dismissed the whole thing as a rumor. I've been doing this long enough to know that there isn't that much smoke without any fire. I mean, even Taylor's agent called at least one writer I know asking what said writer was hearing about a potential deal. That tells me agent Gary Wichard regarded the rumor as more than just talk. I also heard Taylor was very much in favor of coming to Tampa, with one associate describing the situation as "perfect."

In the end, the Bucs resisted the temptation to take on the aging, highly-paid superstar who is nearing his end. Considering the Bucs' youth movement, it was probably the right decision.

Anyway, it was an interesting day. I know many of you aren't sure how to feel about it, but it sure didn't lack intrigue, even if it was a little anticlimactic.

See you in Round 3.

Meet Dexter Jackson

Receiver Appalachian State 5-9, 182

Highlights/stats

Made the cover of Sports Illustrated after helping Appalachian State upset Michigan 34-32 last season. … Had three catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns, including a 68-yarder, against the Wolverines. … Finished his career with 3,415 all-purpose yards, averaging nearly 14 yards every time he touched the ball.

THE VERDICT

Look at it this way: The last Bucs player named Dexter Jackson was their only Super Bowl MVP. "That's wild," the newest Jackson said. Jackson compares somewhat favorably with Cal's DeSean Jackson, who went nine picks earlier (at No. 49) to Philadelphia. He will pay immediate dividends as a kick returner and eventually will be used as a slot receiver. His 4.35 speed in the 40-yard dash is what the Bucs sought.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Meet Aqib Talib

Cornerback Kansas 6-1, 202

Highlights/stats

Ranks second in Kansas history with 13 interceptions. … Was All-Big 12 and first-team All-American in 2007 after finishing with five interceptions and 13 deflections. … Occasionally lined up at receiver, catching eight passes for 182 yards and four touchdowns in 2007.

THE VERDICT
Talib reportedly admitted testing positive for marijuana three times while at Kansas, which might have caused his stock to drop, and was suspended for two games in 2006 for undisclosed disciplinary reasons. But Talib has tremendous ball-hawking coverage skills, which will allow the Bucs to blitz more, and is a big cornerback who can replace the departed Brian Kelly. He is expected to compete with Phillip Buchanon for a starting job.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Gruden on Jackson; an "explosive" playmaker

The Bucs picked up a receiver after all, just a little bit later than many thought.

In second-round pick Dexter Jackson, a 5-foot-9, 182 speedster out of Appalachian State, Jon Gruden said the Bucs got an explosive playmaker, someone who could help them just as much in special teams (on both punt and kick returns) than as receiver.

Jackson may have been under the radar, but was the face of Appalachian State's upset over Michigan after he appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. Jackson averaged 16.8 yards per reception, including 22.9 his senior year, and gained 619 yards on 35 kickoff returns.

Gruden pointed to the Bucs needing a dynamic playmaker on the return game, and apparently, Jackson was it. Jackson's stock rose in after the Senior Bowl and the combine, when he ran a 4.37 40 yard dash.

"He's a quick strike guy," Gruden said.

-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com

(Pictured - Dexter Jackson, right. AP photo, 2007)

Bucs move down six spots

Here's the skinny on the just-announced trade:

The Bucs have moved down six spots to No. 58, swapping second-round picks with Jacksonville. They've also picked up a couple extra picks with the move: No. 158 in the fifth round and a seventh-rounder in 2009.

This, of course doesn't clarify anything as far as the potential Jason Taylor trade. It's possible the Bucs are trying to accumulate additional picks to seal the deal.

Stay tuned.

Gruden on Taylor, possible trades

I asked Jon Gruden about the Bucs being linked several potential trades, including the one involving Jason Taylor. I'll just say that he didn't deny the possibility that something might go down before day's end.

"There have been some trade rumors and I don't think we're any different than anybody else," he said. "When you're talking about high-profile players, we're going to pick up the phone and see what's going on. It's part of our job."

Hmmm....

A quick chat with Jon Gruden

After Jon Gruden's chat with the media here at One Buc Place, I came away with a couple of impressions.

The first is this: Gruden didn't make this call. He pretty much said that general manager Bruce Allen made the final decision here. Perhaps that's the way it should be. But we've all long wondered who had the final say on these matters, and it's clear Allen has gained more and more authority from the Glazer family over the years.

Another observation: I think the Bucs see Talib as a playmaking cornerback, a la DeAngelo Hall. They like his flashiness, even his cockiness, to an extent.

And finally, this: Gruden wanted some offensive help in the worst way. "My guts are ripped out of my body right now," he said. "I'm no different than our fans. You fall in love with some of these guys. You build relationships with them. You study their tape. . . You envision what a great thrill it would be to coach some of these guys. That's why they have general managers to make the tough calls. I certainly support Bruce all the way on this."

Defense, again

The Bucs went with defense in the first round for a second straight year, drafting Kansas cornerback Aqib Talib.

So, what to make of this? Well, I, for one, am a little surprised.

Given the fact that Devin Thomas, the Michigan State receiver, fell to No. 20 and USF's Mike Jenkins was there to be had, it was hard to see this one coming. When you consider Talib's reported history of marijuana use, it's a little perplexing.

The Bucs definitely had to address this position in this draft, so the pick is no surprise from that standpoint. And, Talib is considered a dominant cornerback, so it's hard to knock him as a player.

We hope to get a little more perspective on the pick in a few minutes when coach Jon Gruden takes a few questions from the assembled media.

(Pictured - Aqib Talib. Getty Images, 2007)

Jason Taylor deal close?

Talk of a Jason Taylor-to-the-Bucs deal is gaining strength, and we're hearing a trade may already be agreed to.

As told to us, the deal would involve, at a minimum, the Bucs' second-round pick, No. 52 overall, in exchange for the 33-year-old likely Hall-of-Famer.

The Bucs have continued to bemoan the lack of a consistent pass rush, and adding a player with 117 career sacks would certainly be a step in the right direction. But there are challenges involved in this potential deal, not the least of which is addressing Taylor's contract. Taylor is scheduled to earn $17-million over the final two years of his contract.

It's conceivable there will be an agreement in place before the trade to restructure the contract, but it's too early to say.

Draft breakdown: offensive linemen

One more top 10 list to discuss: here are today's offensive line prospects.

1, Jake Long,  Tackle,  6-7,  315,  Michigan: Already a rich man having signed with the Dolphins on Tuesday.

2, Branden Albert,  Tackle,  6-6,  309,  Virginia: Athletic former basketball player who has a resume strikingly similar to another Cavalier tackle,  the Jets' D'Brickashaw Ferguson.   

3, Ryan Clady,  Tackle,  6-6,  316,  Boise State: Well-built with long arms and reach that allow him to engage defenders; is considered very quick off the ball.   

4, Jeff Otah,  Tackle,  6-6,  340,  Pittsburgh: Given his massive size,  should be quite effective in the running game,  however,  lacks ideal mobility.   

5, Gosder Cherilus,  Tackle,  6-7,  315,  Boston College: Has exceptional height and a long wingspan; will be tested against speedy NFL edge rushers.   

6, Chris Williams,  Tackle,  6-6,  315,  Vanderbilt: Is considered very good against speed rushers because of his finesse,  however,  lacks a power game.   

7, Chilo Rachal,  Guard,  6-5,  315,  USC: Consensus is he left school too early and lacks technique; needs seasoning as a run blocker.   

8, Sam Baker,  Tackle,  6-5,  312,  USC: Will be a candidate to move to an interior position given his build; future will depend on team's needs.   

9, Duane Brown,  Tackle,  6-4,  315,  Virginia Tech: The former tight end has rare athleticism but will likely miss out on the first round because of inconsistency.   

10, Mike Pollak,  Tackle,  6-4,  299,  Arizona State: Has extensive experience with 36 starts but figures to be downgraded because of a lack of quickness.

Draft breakdown: defensive backs

This ran in Thursday's paper, but I've been a little busy and neglected to post it here. There's some real talent on this list, and don't be surprised if some of it finds its way to Tampa Bay.

1, Leodis McKelvin, Cornerback,  5-11,  190,  Troy: It's a close call,  but McKelvin's pure cover skills and potential to be an elite returnman push him to the top.

2, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Cornerback,  6-2,  182,  Tennessee State: Bradenton native is a rare athlete who will be asked to make big jump from Division I-AA.

3, Mike Jenkins,  Cornerback,  6-0,  200,  USF: Possesses rare speed,  airtight man-to-man skills and can help in the return game.

4, Aqib Talib,  Cornerback,  6-1,  202,  Kansas: Has excellent size; versatility should allow him to contribute on offense and special teams.

5, Antoine Cason,  Cornerback,  6-0,  190,  Arizona: Not the most physical player but has instincts and makes numerous plays on the ball.

6, Kenny Phillips,  Safety,  6-2,  208,  Miami: Good size will allow him to be formidable against NFL running games.

7, Tyrell Johnson,  Safety,  6-0,  207,  Arkansas State: Big hitter and solid tackler had the best NFL combine bench press among defensive backs.

8, Brandon Flowers,  Cornerback,  5-10,  189,  Virginia Tech: Lack of size will be a disadvantage against the run; a solid open-field tackler.

9, Justin King,  Cornerback,  5-11,  192,  Penn State: One of the fastest players in the draft — 4.31 seconds in the 40 yards — but lacking in other areas.

10, DaJuan Morgan,  Safety,  6-0,  205,  N.C. State: Lacks elite speed but racked up 225 career tackles despite just one full season as a starter.

Bucs get a final look at Merling

Some draft news to report:

We hear the Bucs were among the more than 10 teams with representatives at a workout earlier today for Clemson defensive end Phillip Merling, with defensive line coach Larry Coyer taking it all in. The Tigers standout had been physically limited until recently because of a sports hernia surgery.

Today's workout was part of an effort by the player to eliminate any concerns about his health. Merling is expected to be a first-round pick selected somewhere just before or just after the Bucs' No. 20 selection. It's a pretty safe bet that he's in the pool of players they're considering, though we can't say for sure how high they have him ranked on their board.

The Redskins, who pick 21st, had everyone from owner Dan Snyder to coach Jim Zorn at the workout.

We're on the clock

The folks at Sports Illustrated contacted us this week to ask whether we'd be willing to participate in an online mock draft with writers from around the country on SI.com.

We obliged.

To make it as real as possible, the picks were actually made while us writers were on the clock. It's being unveiled right now on the site. Click here to see the full draft.

Rick Stroud and I both agreed on our pick: turns out, Mike Jenkins from South Florida was available, so we promptly gobbled him up. I'm not convinced he'll actually be there for the Bucs on Saturday, but I bet they wouldn't mind if our little experiment turned out to be a foreshadowing.

My thinking on the pick was that, if I'm a general manager, I don't like these any of these receivers enough to reach for them in the first round. I'd rather come back and take what's available at that position in Round 2. I thought there was more value in taking a cornerback with Jenkins' skills and complete package than a receiver who may or may not pan out.

Hey, it's just one man's opinion.

Draft breakdown, Day 4

Today, it's time to look at the receivers. Here are Rick Stroud's top 10. I'll have the defensive backs for you tomorrow.

1. Devin Thomas, 6-2, 215, Michigan State

Registered 79 catches, 1,260 yards and eight touchdowns in his only season of major college football.

2. DeSean Jackson, 5-10, 175, California

Most explosive wideout and natural pass catcher. Could help immediately as kick returner.

3. Limas Sweed, 6-4, 217, Texas

Great size and tremendous red zone threat. Injured wrist caused his stock to drop.

4. James Hardy, 6-6, 216, Indiana

Creates matchup problems with smaller DBs. Double-digit TDs in three seasons.

5. Malcolm Kelly, 6-4, 222, Oklahoma

Great on film, but hurt himself with 40-yard time of 4.75.

6. Early Doucet, 6-0, 208, Louisiana State

Slot receiver slowed last season by groin injury.

7. Jordy Nelson, 6-3, 215, Kansas State

Polished receiver projects as a No. 2 option for West Coast-style offense. Slow 40-yard time dropped him.

8. Lavelle Hawkins, 5-11, 185, California

Dropped passes and disappeared for Cal late in the season.

9. Mario Manningham, 6-0, 183, Michigan

Character issues abound and slower-than-expected 40-yard time of 4.59.

10. Keenan Burton, 6-1, 199, Kentucky

Great hands and work ethic. Series of injuries affected last season's performance.

Jared Allen traded to Vikings

Jared Allen is a Minnesota Viking.

The Chiefs have an agreement in principle to send Allen, their franchise defensive end, to the Vikings for a first-round pick in 2008 and additional undisclosed selections.

Terms have not been disclosed, but the Vikings are believed to have traded their first round pick (No. 17 overall) and two third rounders (No. 73 and 82 overall). That gives the Chiefs six of the top 100 choices in the 2008 NFL draft.

Look for Allen to sign an enormous contract with the Vikings today that will likely include a $25- to $30-million signing bonus.

The Bucs had an interest in Allen, but he was on his way to Minnesota Tuesday night and should sign today.

Tampa Bay has just five picks in the draft - one in each of the first five rounds. It's hard to gauge how serious the Bucs' interest was in Allen, but it's believed they offered at least the 20th overall pick and possibly a third-rounder or player.

Allen had two DUI arrests and was suspended for two games last season, so there's a risk. At the end of the day, it was probably too big of a risk for the Bucs.

      

      

Draft breakdown: Day 3

Here's today's installment: Rick Stroud's look at the quarterbacks. It's certainly a position where there are some intriguing possibilities, many of which you would expect the Bucs will at least consider.

1, Matt Ryan, 6-5, 224, Boston College: Premier quarterback in the 2008 draft class who will win games at the next level. Falcons, Chiefs and Ravens are likely destinations.

2, Brian Brohm, 6-3, 227, Louisville: Would've been a lock first-round pick had he come out as a junior. Good for team with West Coast offense but limited arm strength.

3, Chad Henne, 6-2, 225, Michigan: Very experienced leader of the Wolverines improved his value at Senior Bowl. Can throw the deep ball and will likely be an NFL starter in a few years.

4, Joe Flacco, 6-7, 236, Delaware: Strongest arm in the draft class. Transferred from Pitt and dominated Division I-AA level. Late first-, early second-round projection, maybe to Dolphins.

5, John David Booty, 6-3, 213, USC: Played in pressure games at USC and has calm demeanor that allows him to shake off mistakes. West Coast offense a fit.

6, Andre Woodson, 6-5, 224, Kentucky: Extremely productive college QB saw his stock drop at Senior Bowl because of a hitch in his delivery. With coaching, he could be a solid backup.

7, Erik Ainge, 6-6, 225, Tennessee: Slow release and tendency to take sacks will be factors. Could develop into a long-term backup.
   
8, Josh Johnson,6-3, 198, San Diego: Threw 43 touchdowns with one interception. Rushed for 720 yards and was MVP of the East-West Shrine game.

9, Dennis Dixon, 6-4, 205, Oregon: Great athlete who is coming off ACL surgery, which might prevent him from being drafted. Could play WR or KR and fill third QB spot.
   
10, Colt Brennan, 6-3, 205, Hawaii: Huge numbers for the Warriors in run-and-shoot. Lacks arm strength and saw stock plummet after Senior Bowl. Had hip injury that required surgery but added 12 pounds since Mobile.

Draft breakdown: Day 2

This is elsewhere on our site, but for the sake of convenience, here's the second installment of our position rankings. Today's edition looks at the defensive:

1,Chris Long, End, 6-4, 275, Virginia: Play a traditional 4-3 defense and want a pass-rusher who comes off the edge? He's your man. Or perhaps your team prefers the 3-4 alignment and you'll ask Long to be a stand-up outside linebacker. Well, that would be fine, too.

2,Vernon Gholston, End, 6-4, 258, Ohio State: Registered 22½ sacks in 25 starts and is considered adept at dropping into pass coverage.   

3,Glenn Dorsey, Tackle, 6-2, 316, LSU: Game has some resemblance to Warren Sapp's given his quickness and ability to create havoc.   

4,Sedrick Ellis, Tackle, 6-1, 305, USC: Boosted his stock at the Senior Bowl in January, where he was, arguably, the most impressive defender.   

5,Derrick Harvey, End, 6-5, 252, Florida: Versatile player who can succeed in both 3-4 and 4-3 schemes; started just 18 games but had 20½ sacks.   

6,Phillip Merling, End, 6-5, 272, Clemson: Plays well against the run (31 tackles for loss in two seasons); coming off a recent hernia surgery.   

7,Kentwan Balmer, Tackle, 6-5, 298, North Carolina: Some are concerned about a college career best described as inconsistent; started just 22 games for the Tar Heels.   

8,Calais Campbell, End, 6-8, 282, Miami: Exceptionally tall but vulnerable to the run; might be best suited as a third-down specialist a la the Bucs' Greg White.   

9,Trevor Laws, Tackle, 6-1, 304, Notre Dame: Compact build makes him a natural against the run; started 37 games for the Irish with 224 career tackles.   

10,Pat Sims, Tackle, 6-2, 310, Auburn: Inexperience — just 12 college starts — is a concern; questions linger about a lack of strength necessary to compete against NFL guards.

Trade down? Why not?

When you do what we do for a living, people expect you to have all the answers. And, so, this time of year, everyone expects you to know exactly what the Bucs are going to do on draft day.

Got news for you: not even the Bucs know yet.

Anyhow, I still make an effort to answer the frequently-asked question. One theory I find myself espousing lately is this: the Bucs could trade down. The latest to get this speech was my cousin, Sheldon, on Sunday. Not sure if he bought it. You can judge for yourself.

Here's my thinking (which, by the way, is echoed in Peter King's column on SI.com this morning): I believe that if it's the Bucs' intention to target wide receiver with their first pick, they might believe trading down into the second round -- and picking up an extra second- or third-round pick -- is wise. My rationale is, given the ordinary class of receivers we're looking at this year, how much difference will there be in a guy they can select at No. 20 versus one available to them in the second round?

It's impossible to say how much better Limas Sweed, for example, will be than, oh, Early Doucet. But my gut is that Tampa Bay might feel the gap between the first- and second-round receivers is narrow enough to make moving down for the sake of an extra pick worthwhile (does that make sense?).

The most significant variable that could derail this theory is someone taking an unexpected fall in the first round. Not sure who that might be, but let's say they don't expect USF's Mike Jenkins to be there -- and there's a good chance he's gone by No. 20 -- maybe they stand pat and grab him. It's unclear who the Bucs deem to be the best cornerback available this year, but if it's another guy and he happens to be available at No. 20, I'd say they'd grab him. And that would be a good move, in my opinion.

Whether the Bucs trade down or not, I think they will definitely field calls if anyone's interested. Their shortage of picks is no small factor, I think (they only have five). And there are several positions where it's believed there will be good value available in the second and third rounds. Cornerback and receiver, which happen to be primary needs for the Bucs, are among them.

For those who want star power, this probably isn't what you want to hear. But that doesn't mean it's not the smart thing to do. If I'm wrong, feel free to come back a week from today and let me have it.

Of course, we hope to see you before then. Don't be a stranger.

Draft breakdown, Day 1: RBs

If you read our newspaper, you might already have seen this list this morning. But for those who missed it, I'm planning on posting our position-by-position draft rankings here over the next week. Today's position list, compiled by Rick Stroud, looks at running backs. Feel free to concur or disagree. I'll post my defensive-line rankings tomorrow (Monday).

1, Darren McFadden, 6-1, 211, Arkansas: No player could have a bigger impact as a rookie this fall than Run DMC. McFadden is being compared with Adrian Peterson.

2, Rashard Mendenhall, 5-10, 225, Illinois: Most complete back in the draft was the Big Ten player of the year.

3, Jonathan Stewart, 5-10, 235, Oregon: Led Pac-10 with 1, 722 yards and will thrive in a pro-style offense.

4, Felix Jones, 5-10, 207, Arkansas: Played Robin to McFadden's Batman but led the nation at more than 8 yards per carry.

5, Ray Rice, 5-9, 205, Rutgers: Workhorse back with nearly 5, 000 career yards is short, not small, and a very powerful runner.

6, Jamaal Charles, 5-11, 200, Texas: Rushed for 1, 600 yards and 18 touchdowns; some fumbling problems with the dual-sport star who ran track.

7, Matthew Forte, 6-1, 221, Tulane: Finished career with eight straight 100-yard games and 2, 127 overall in 12 games.

8, Chris Johnson, 5-11, 197, East Carolina: Dazzling speed; his stock rose at the Senior Bowl.

9, Kevin Smith, 6-1, 217, Central Florida: He finished with 2, 567 yards and nearly broke Barry Sanders' season record (2, 628 yards) — though he played in three more games than Sanders.

10, Jalen Parmele, 5-11, 224, Toledo: Level of competition will be a factor; good kick returner.

Kiper's take

Just spent the better part of the past couple hours on a conference-call interview session with ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper.

I got a few tidbits out of it that I found interesting -- not all of them Bucs-related, however.

* For one, Kiper is convinced USF cornerback Mike Jenkins could land here and has him destined for Tampa in his latest mock draft. I think we all feel there's a realistic chance of that happening, but my biggest question is whether Jenkins will still be on the board. That will depend on the order in which the top cornerbacks are selected. Kiper does have some pretty good insight into what teams are thinking and how they view certain players, so there's something to be said for his projections. Time will tell, I suppose.

* Regarding Delaware quarterback Joe Flacco, Kiper insists he will be the real deal.

"I can't see any way he gets past the first round," he said. If Flacco had played at a major college, Kiper added, Flacco would be debated as potentially the best quarterback in the draft. Kiper cites Flacco's size and arm strength and coachability -- determined from personal workouts with teams -- as his best qualities.

* And, finally, like a lot of us, Kiper said he fully expects the Bucs to address quarterback somewhere in the draft, though not in the first round. With quarterback being a position many teams perceive to have good value even in the later rounds, it might make a lot of sense -- despite the 49 quarterbacks already on the roster! My guess is you should look for move anytime after the second round.
 

WR at No. 20? Not so fast

Wanted to elaborate on a point mentioned here last night when I posted the Caldwell/Hawkins item.

As I stated in the previous post, the Bucs appear to be giving heavy consideration to a group of receivers who aren't considered first-round caliber. Hawkins and Caldwell, for example, are more likely to be picked between the second and fourth rounds. Tampa Bay is, of course, considering a number of receivers who are potential first rounders, too.

Now, the draft is one of those things where you can find justification for just about any theory. But, with that said, there are a couple of reasons I think the Bucs believe they can get by without choosing a receiver in the first round.

For one, because this is a deep, if unspectacular class of receivers, the Bucs will have a decent group available to them in the second round and, perhaps, even later. Knowing this, the Bucs might well feel they can take their time and not rush, choosing instead to address another position with the 20th pick. If so, it will probably be a player at a position that is not considered as deep as receiver. Also, though cornerback is considered a deep position, the top four or five prospects could be off the board after the first round. Thus, you can make a case that the Bucs' first pick would be better spent there.

The other reason this scenario could play out: the Bucs aren't nearly as down on their group of receivers as everyone else seems to be. I know this sounds ridiculous to many and, yes, they are definitely going to address the position. But I don't know that Tampa Bay feels nearly as much urgency as it would appear. I'm not pulling this out of thin air. As with everything you read here, we form our opinions through behind-the-scenes observations, conversations, etc. Whether you agree or not, the Bucs think Michael Clayton can be a significant contributor for them. They believe Maurice Stovall has some rare ability, too. And Paris Warren looked like a Pro Bowler in the 2007 preseason, for what that's worth.

In the end, I suppose we'll know soon enough. But this is a theory I think could certainly come to fruition.

More draft prospects visit

We've learned the identity of a couple more draft prospects on the list of players visiting One Buc Place.

Cal receiver Lavelle Hawkins passed through Tampa Bay last week, while Florida receiver and Tampa native Andre Caldwell will visit on Thursday.

The interest in both players is an indication the Bucs are considering a group of receivers that will be available in the second or third round rather than just those considered candidates for the first round.

Hawkins played alongside DeSean Jackson at Cal and became an All-Pac-10 second team selection last season. Like Jackson, he is a little on the small side at 5-11 and 187 pounds, although Hawkins has shown a willingness to run inside routes such as slants. He also is regarded as a crisp route-runner. Most experts predict Hawkins will come off the board anywhere between the second and fourth rounds.

Caldwell is built a little more sturdily at 6-0, 204 pounds, but he still possesses impressive speed, having run a 4.35-second 40-yard dash. Many scouts wonder whether he can stay healthy after a season-ending leg injury in 2005 and a couple of nagging injuries in 2007. Overall, he's a good prospect who might easily be had in, say, the third round. Whether he's the the game breaker the Bucs are seeking remains to be seen, but his presence is certainly interesting. One note on Caldwell: according to his agent, he doesn't count toward the Bucs' limit of 30 prospect visits because he is a local player. Teams are permitted to host players in their local area without penalty.

Cal WR DeSean Jackson visits Bucs

   For at least one day, the fastest receiver in the NFL draft belonged to the Bucs.

   Cal junior DeSean Jackson, who is commonly projected in mock drafts to be selected by the Bucs with the No. 20 overall pick, visited the team's facility Monday.

   The 5-foot-9 Jackson met with coach Jon Gruden, receivers coach Richard Mann and special teams coordinator/running backs coach Rich Bisaccia.

   Gruden has said the Bucs want to add a playmaker and increase their speed on offense. Jackson certainly fits the criteria, having scored 29 touchdowns in 36 games. Jackson ran the fastest time in the 40-yard dash among wide receivers at the NFL combine at 4.35. He also impressed scouts with his ability to catch the football at Cal's pro day March 11.

   Jackson could have an immediate impact on the Bucs' kick return game while providing an eventual successor to 36-year-old receiver Joey Galloway.

   The biggest negative on Jackson is that he weighs just 169 pounds and durability could be a concern.

   Gruden says he expects the Bucs to have a choice of several prospects at receiver and cornerback in the first round.

   ""Which (receiver) do you like?'' Gruden said. ""I mean the guy at Cal (Jackson) is 169 pounds. Is he going to be big enough? He's certainly fast as hell. He would be a hell of a returner. The guy at Indiana (James Hardy) is big. Every film you pick up, there's another touchdown. Is he fast enough? We've got (Maurice) Stovall. What the hell have we got him for? You don't want to stock guys. So that's a tough call. It always is, though.''

   One of Jackson’s biggest supporters is receiver Jerry Rice, who played for Gruden with the Oakland Raiders. Rice worked out with Jackson in Pensacola prior to the combine and attended his pro day workout. There are other connections to the Bucs. Jackson’s older brother, Byron, who played for the Kansas City Chiefs in '92-'93, was a teammate of Bucs quarterback Jeff Garcia at San Jose State.

   Jackson left Tampa Monday afternoon and will visit with the Philadelphia Eagles tonight and Tuesday.

   

RB Stewart scheduled for visit

The Bucs are getting down to business in their preparations for the draft, and that means there will be a parade of prospects coming through town for private meetings with the team.

One of them, it turns out, will be Oregon running back Jonathan Stewart, a projected first-round pick who conceivably could be available when the Bucs draft 20th.

Stewart is a candidate to be selected earlier, but the recent news that he underwent toe surgery that will take a couple of months to heal could result in a drop for the big 233-pound back.

Last season, Stewart set single-season school records in rushing yards (1,722) and all-purpose yards (2,481). He led the Pac-10 in both and scored 13 total touchdowns.

Somehow, I still see the Bucs as more likely to select a receiver in the first round. Running back seems a more stable position with Earnest Graham, Warrick Dunn and Michael Bennett all in the fold. But running back is certainly a position that you can expect to be addressed early in the draft, perhaps even in the first round.