Much like the anticipation of Christmas morning, football enthusiasts are bursting with excitement for the 2025 NFL Draft. The time has finally arrived and in a few days, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will make their draft selections over a three-day span. As the proceedings approach, final projections and buzz monopolize the internet before the spectacle kicks off in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Buccaneers hold the 19th pick in the First Round and there has been much deliberation on who could be available in that slot. Here are recent scenarios from various outlets on who the Buccaneers could take on April 24:
NFL.com
- Pick: *Projected Trade with Packers* (No.23), Edge Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M
- Comments: The Buccaneers could use Stewart as a 5-technique because of his size and strength at the point of attack, potentially setting him up to replace Logan Hall if the veteran departs as a free agent in 2026. Stewart will also stand up at times because of his athleticism, making him a great fit in Tampa Bay's scheme.
CBS Sports
- Pick: CB Will Johnson, Michigan
- Comments: The Bucs tried to get a corner in free agency and missed out on their top targets. After Hunter, Johnson is the top cornerback in this draft but slips because of a lack of speed. Tampa Bay is just fine with that.
The Draft Network
- Pick: LB Jihaad Campbell, Alabama
- Comments: Jihaad Campbell makes it clear from the first snap—he belongs in the first round. His athleticism, urgency, and physical edge give him the tools to be an every-down, all-situation defender at the next level. For Todd Bowles, Campbell is the kind of tone-setter this defense can build around. He brings the range to erase space and the instincts to control the middle. With the green dot on his helmet, Campbell projects as the next long-term leader of the Buccaneers' defense.
PFF
- Pick: S Malaki Starks, Georgia
- Comments: The Buccaneers could easily look at a pass rusher or a linebacker here, but with Jihaad Campbelland Donovan Ezeiruaku off the board, they opt for talent over forcing a need. Starks and Antoine Winfield Jr. would be an elite safety pairing, and both could play free safety or box safety, as well as the slot.
The Athletic
- Pick: LB Jihaad Campbell, Alabama
- Comments: Lavonte David is back at age 35 for a reason — he is still playing at a high level. But this would also be a great opportunity for the veteran to help Campbell get introduced to NFL life. The Buccaneers are going to have a defense-heavy draft, especially in the early rounds.