Mocking the Draft has another 2012 NFL mock draft up, this time going two rounds. They're still using the old draft order, even though the Bucs are currently on pace to have the sixth overall pick in the draft.
And in that old draft order, Dan Kadar thinks the Bucs will select CB Dre Kirkpatrick out of Alabama in the first round, and LB Vontaze Burfict in the second round. Kirkpatrick is widely thought to be the second best CB in the draft, while Burfict is a massively talented linebacker who could slide on draft day because of a drop in productivity and a massive amount of personal foul penalties. Here are Kadar's thoughts on the picks:
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
Tampa Bay went from being one of the surprise teams of 2010 to being one of the most disappointing in 2011. The team is 26th in pass defense and it may be time to find that replacement for 36-year-old Ronde Barber.
41. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Vontaze Burfict, MLB, Arizona State
Here is another top talent sliding. Burfict has struggled this season but could play on the weak side due to his athleticism.