2018 NFL Mock Draft: Complete first round through Pro Days
Pick Analysis. Cornerback/Safety. Alabama Crimson Tide. Scouting Report. Minkah Fitzpatrick. 7. player. 48
When it comes to the seventh pick for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as long as either top safety in this class is there when they need them, they’ll be fine. It’s unlikely that a team like the Colts or Broncos looks the way of Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Alabama took the 2017-18 College Football Playoff National Championship back to Tuscaloosa once again, and Fitzpatrick was a large reason why. Fitzpatrick was the defensive leader for a very good group of defensive players for the Crimson Tide.
The defense could the better side of the ball for the Buccaneers in 2018, but they’ll be competing in an incredibly tough NFC South, featuring three other playoff level squads. If the Bucs can add someone like Fitzpatrick to the mix, that does take their defense to the next level, they’ll find themselves possibly back in contention in the division.
Tampa also needs to look the way of offensive line help. Reaching for an offensive tackle that should fall around picks 15-25 is not the best idea for the Bucs, but they could trade down. Upgrading the offensive line can wait until the following rounds if they can snag a defensive upgrade like Fitzpatrick with this pick.