2019 NFL Mock Draft: Odell Beckham trade throws first round into chaos

It has been long thought that LSU linebacker Devin White would be one of the combine’s biggest standouts, and the Butkus Award winner certainly didn’t disappoint in Indianapolis with a freaky showing at Lucas Oil Stadium. White ran a ridiculous 4.41 40-yard-dash to go along with a 40-inch vertical, solidifying his place as the draft’s top linebacker, and potentially clinching his spot in the Top-5.

Tampa Bay’s willingness to let Kwon Alexander walk in free agency points toward them spending an early pick on a rangy, athletic middle linebacker and White is one of the best linebacker prospects to come out in years.

He’s perfect for the spread revolution in the NFL with his ability to play in a variety of schemes. He’s not your traditional big-bodied middle linebacker, but he’s still got enough strength to be a good run-stopper in the middle, while also being agile enough to hold up in single coverage when matched up with a tight end or running back. He’s also got the ability to get after the quarterback, and could be utilized in certain situations as an edge rusher in obvious passing situations.

New Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians has his work cut out for him in Tampa as he inherits a defense that was dead-last in defensive DVOA a season ago. They need a culture change on that side of the ball, and White brings excellent leadership and locker-room ability to go along with his strong play on the field.

White would be an immediate starter in Tampa, and is the type of player that you can build an entire defense around. I’d be surprised if the Bucs pass on him at No. 5, although grabbing an offensive lineman or a corner will be tempting as well.