Buccaneers NFL Draft Target: Defensive Lineman, Cameron Sample (Tulane)

Kicking off our series of potential Tampa Bay Buccaneers NFL Draft targets, we’re starting with a young man who could come in and help continue the teams trench warfare domination in 2021.

Cameron Sample is entering the NFL by way of the Tulane Green Wave and after a standout performance at the 2021 Reese’s Senior Bowl, he’s getting primed for his Pro Day this week, looking to raise his stock even more than he already has.

Here’s what we know, so far.

CAMERON SAMPLE COLLEGIATE CAREER

Sample finishes his four-year career at Tulane having played in 41 collegiate games, totaling 91 tackles and 10.5 sacks.

Boosted by a stellar Senior season, Sample was named a Pro Football Focus All-American and was also named as the site’s Most Valuable Defensive Lineman in college football as well.

He wrapped up his collegiate playing career in the 2021 Reese’s Senior Bowl where he practiced and played for Matt Rhule and the Carolina Panthers coaching staff. His performance in Mobile drew widespread praise as he jumped off the field as a prospect who flourished under NFL coaching.

PRO DAY DATA AND ANALYSIS

Tulane will hold their Pro Day on March 30th. This posting will be updated afterwards.

WHAT HE BRINGS IN 2021

As a 3-4 defensive end, Sample is a powerful pass rusher who works best when he’s working inside, but is a capable edge setter when he needs to be.

He brings a team like the Buccaneers scheme versatility as a pass rush specialist who can spell starters if needed. Pairs well with edge rushers like Jason Pierre-Paul and/or Shaquil Barrett and has the ability to take advantage of offenses who sell out to stop one of the stars.

Will win more with speed and burst off the line than with strength and technical ability as his NFL staff continues to mold his athletic build to give him the tools needed to succeed consistently.

On the current roster, I put him behind both William Gholston and Ndamukong Suh obviously, and likely find him behind Patrick O’Connor for the initial stretch, but in front of Khalil Davis.

After some time to adapt to the NFL game, and some tutelage from the coaching staff and more veteran linemen, Sample should find himself in a Rakeem Nunez-Roches type of rotational role with Todd Bowles finding a way to employ his athleticism and speed off the line.

THREE-YEAR OUTLOOK

Has the makings of a starting defensive end if he can put the skills behind the talent. Some players have the physical attributes to overpower their opponents without the need of many tools.

Sample will need some refinement and will have to learn how to use his perceived shortcomings as catalysts for developing advantages over opponents who may not be as athletic or agile as he is already.

STOCK REPORT

Sample currently looks like an early day three prospect with potential to climb into the third round with a solid pro day performance. Teams are always on the lookout for versatile players who can win with athleticism but take to coaching well as they look to develop further skills.

Sample’s athletic potential is obvious to anyone who watches him, and his testing should only serve to reinforce this fact. Meanwhile, his performance at the Senior Bowl demonstrates his ability to be taught, adapt, and perform. A lot of people are going to have him on their boards. The question will be whether or not they trust he’ll be there on day three before they pull the trigger in the third round.

ON THE CLOCK...

This is where Bucs Nation comes in. Taking a look at the roster, the fit, and the projections. Where do you value Tulane defensive lineman, Cameron Sample?