2019 NFL Draft Results: Buccaneers select LB Devin White

With their first selection of the 2019 NFL Draft, the Buccaneers select LSU linebacker Devin White.

The decision to select White was a no-brainer. The team needs a strong presence among their linebacker after letting Kwon Alexander go in free agency and the LSU product will help with that. Not to mention, lining him up next to veteran linebacker Lavonte David will allow the young linebacker to learn quickly. White has the speed and ability to rush the passer as well, which the Bucs so desperately need.

Below are some pros and cons on White, courtesy of Bucs Nation’s James Yarcho:

Pros

Plain and simple, he’s the best all around inside linebacker in the draft. He’s the most well rounded and will start immediately - which is exactly what you’re looking for in a first round pick, especially in the top ten. His speed (4.42 40-yard dash) allows him to close quickly and never be out of a play. That sideline to sideline speed can open things up for Lavonte David to get more blitzing opportunities, where he excels when given the opportunity. He has coverage abilities and the size to match up against the tight ends in the NFL if called upon.

Cons

Has a tendency to over-pursue, much like Kwon Alexander did for the Bucs. Not a severe enough problem to drop him down draft boards, but able to be fixed with coaching. Still has some problems reading blocks properly, but has shown massive growth in that area at LSU. It was a problem for him that he has worked hard to correct, but still room for more growth.