Analyzing The 2008 Draft Class

Another Buccaneers draft is in the books, and another seven players are on the team. While this draft gave Bucs fans a lot of questions, some of them were answered as well. The Bucs effectively used trades to pick up a few more players. In this draft, the Bucs gained a Jayhawk, a Mountaineer, a Scarlet Knight, a Terrapin, a Torero, a Seminole, and a Gamecock. Here is the Bucs draft class.

Rd. 1- Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

In 34 career games, Talib had 162 tackles, 43 passes blocked, and 13 interceptions. The Bucs surprised many by going for a cornerback in the first round, and then taking Talib over hometown favorite Mike Jenkins. Talib has character concerns, as he has not only tested positive for marijuana while at Kansas, but was also suspended because of disciplinary issues. He runs the risk of being a big star or a big bust. Talib is physical, and has good hands, and he looks to fight for a starting spot on the roster.

Rd. 2- Dexter Jackson, WR/KR, Appalachian State

Another Dexter Jackson comes into the Bucs history. The last one was the Super Bowl MVP, and we as fans can only hope this Dexter Jackson can live up to that potential. In 55 career games, Jackson had 110 catches for 1,846 yards and 14 touchdowns. He mostly spent time as a kick returner, which is why some Bucs fans are speculating about this decision. The Bucs traded down with the Jaguars, when Limas Sweed was still available. Hopefully size won’t be a factor, as this speedy guy has great hands and toughness. The Bucs needed a wide receiver to breakout as their playmaker, and Jackson will have to be the guy.

Rd. 3- Jeremy Zuttah, OG, Rutgers

Zuttah has the versatility to play a couple of positions in the NFL. He anchored his offensive line at Rutgers, where he started in 28 consecutive games. In a two-year span of 698 pass plays, Zuttah allowed zero sacks. He could possibly shift to an interior lineman position if needed. He is explosive off the snap, and has solid hand techniques. He will join a young offensive Buccaneer line, possibly fighting for a starting spot.

Rd. 4- Dre Moore, DT, Maryland

In 44 career games, Moore recorded 140 tackles, 17.5 for loss, and had 10.5 sacks. Moore will join a very talented defensive line that was second in the league last year. He can play in either a 3-4 or a 4-3 scheme, making him very useful to the Bucs. His work ethic has been brought into question, but he has great strength and speed. He also has a mean streak that will help him in this league. Moore will probably be a backup, but could see some playing time on various downs.

Rd. 5- Josh Johnson, QB, San Diego

There was no doubt in my mind that the Bucs would pick up a quarterback. It just surprises me that they picked up this one. Johnson did not play against top competition in college, giving him very little experience against tough opponents. However, he could be the hidden gem of the draft. The MVP of the East-West Game is the NCAA’s all-time leader in passing efficiency at 176.7. One stat that is unbelievably astounding is this: Johnson threw only 15 interceptions in his entire college career. It’s very mind-boggling. That’s 15 picks in 1,065 attempts, including only one pick among 301 attempts in his senior season. In 42 career games, Johnson completed 68% of his passes for 9,699 yards, 113 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. He needs to bulk up, but has great speed and solid throwing mechanics. The quarterback carousel is still going, but Johnson might be the quarterback of the future.

Rd. 6- Geno Hayes, ILB, Florida State

This pick is a little confusing. The Bucs have three very talented linebackers, and picked up another three in free agency. They are beginning to stock linebackers like they are quarterbacks. Not that Hayes isn’t talented. In 36 career games, he had 156 tackles, 29.5 of them for loss, 8 sacks, 7 passes blocked, and 2 interceptions. Hayes is another player that has character issues, making that two players alone in this draft for the Bucs. He has been charged with assault on an officer, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct. He is also one of the Florida State players that was involved in the cheating scandal. He was suspended for the final game of the season, a bowl game. He is undersized and not very physical, but has great speed and has an outstanding range. If he proves troublesome, some people may be wondering why the Bucs didn’t select Bo Ruud, Barrett Ruud’s younger brother. At least he would stay out of trouble. As of right now, Hayes appears to be someone who will stay on the bench for a while.

Rd. 7- Cory Boyd, RB, South Carolina

Another non-surprise on the Bucs behalf, they picked up a running back with their final selection. With Cadillac Williams’ future uncertain, the Bucs added an extra incentive. In 46 career games, Boyd ran the ball 464 times for 2,267 yards and 23 touchdowns, averaging 4.9 yards per carry. He can also be a receiving threat, catching 117 passes for 1,303 yards and 5 touchdowns. Boyd can also fall under the “character concerns” label, as he was suspended for an entire season for a violation of athletic department policy. The Bucs happen to like the diamond in the rough. Boyd has the potential to be a big steal in the draft, as long as he keeps his head on straight. He has average speed and trouble protecting the ball, but he is strong and has good hands. He could see some playing time if the Bucs are still without Cadillac.

The Bucs filled their needs in every position. I’m going to keep my eye on the Dexter Jackson situation. The Bucs gave up Limas Sweed for Jackson and a few more picks. If Jackson doesn’t fufill his potential, and Sweed is a pro bowl caliber player, I will be pissed. This was an interesting draft for the Bucs to say the least. I wish nothing but the best for all of these players. I hope they all stay out of trouble, and can be effective for the Buccaneers.
Overall Grade: B