2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after Week 11

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need to add some depth on the defensive line and there may not be a better play available at this position in the top 10 than Alabama’s Jonathan Allen. Heck, Allen might be gone by this spot, but if he is still around at No. 8 overall, the Buccaneers would be silly to pass him up.

Experts are worried about the lack of talented targets for Jameis Winston despite Mike Evans being an elite wide out and Cameron Brate emerging as a top tight end, but with Vincent Jackson getting closer to retirement, it might be time to add a receiver — but they should wait until later in the draft for that.

In the top 10, there might not be a game-changing receiver available this year worth the reach. In that case, Allen has to be the choice in this spot to help a struggling defensive line that ranks in the bottom half of the league in sacks this season.

The linebacker/defensive lineman hybrid has recorded 38 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and seven tacks this season, approaching and passing previous career-bests. He could give the Buccaneers a much-needed pass rush specialist.