The draft has arrived. Several key figures will take part in this year's draft announcements for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Whether fans or legends, these individuals will have a front row seat as Tampa Bay's future changes.
On Day One of the draft, Ryan Williams will be on stage to participate in a jersey swap with the club's 19th overall selection. Williams, a Buccaneer fan since 1987, is battling Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Despite circumstances out of his control and enduring 42 grueling rounds of chemotherapy, Williams remains an embodiment of strength and perseverance. In addition to his battle with cancer, he underwent a six-month long recovery after waking up from a coma induced by COVID-19. Williams continues to see each day as a gift and strives to uplift those around him. His love of football continues to be a motivating force pushing him forward.
"I knew I had a battle ahead, but little did I know that it would be like this," Williams described. "Cancer has taught me so many things, especially how precious life is and how grateful you should be for just the little things. You cannot give up and you cannot let cancer dictate your life or it will win the battle. You must stay positive. Having faith in something is so important. You need to believe there is a greater force and that there is a purpose and a plan for you being here. Look at me, I am a walking miracle. My oncologist calls me his miracle patient. I would like my legacy to simply be known as a wonderful, funny, crazy and kind man who refused to give up. I am grateful to be alive and want to thank my family, my friends and the Buccaneers for their support."
Buccaneers legend and Super Bowl XXVVII MVP safety Dexter Jackson will be in Kansas City to announce the team's selections on Day Two. Jackson is known for his significant contributions in the historic victory over the (then) Oakland Raiders, cementing the win with two interceptions. He finished his career with the Bucs totaling eight interceptions, 3.5 sacks and 19 passes defensed during a six-year tenure.
The first pick on Day Three will be made from Germany by the Bucs flag football championship team, represented by Joan Reumann. Reumann is the female MVP of the NFL Flag Germany National Championships. She continues to break barriers, creating inclusion for women in the industry.
