With the NFL Draft wrapped up, Marc Magana takes a look at the first-round selections for each of the teams in the NFC South
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Linebacker, Devin White
The Buccaneers needed a linebacker in the worst way. Devin White fits the bill for Todd Bowles defense. White can fill the hole left by Kwon Alexander at middle linebacker. Tampa Bay has had some good linebackers in their history and White has the privilege of learning alongside Lavonte David.
I think the Bucs could have done better with this pick. In my eyes, the player isn’t the problem, it’s the positional value. Time will tell if it was the right pick, but general manager Jason Licht is skating on thin ice.
Final Grade: B-
Carolina Panthers: Defensive End, Brian Burns
The Panthers get arguably the best pure pass rusher in the draft. What a steal for the Panthers, who haven’t had a great pass rusher since Julius Peppers.
Burns is a day one starter and a difference maker. The Panthers ranked 26th in total sacks in 2018. Smart move from Carolina in a division with Drew Brees, Matt Ryan, and Jameis Winston.
Final Grade: A
Atlanta Falcons: Guard, Chris Lindstrom
The Falcons commit to protecting Matt Ryan and draft arguably the best guard in the draft. Lindstrom is a plug-and-play starter at guard with the ability to get out and make blocks in space. The Falcons have shown a commitment to the run game in past years and Lindstrom helps strengthen that. They could have had Lindstrom after a trade back? Either way, good pick by the Falcons.
The Falcons further ensured that Matt Ryan would be kept upright by drafting Kaleb McGary after trading back into the first round. Well, one thing is for sure, the plan of attack was clear. Address the trenches and keep Matt Ryan safe. As Ryan is getting older, it seems like a smart move from the Falcons. Of course, it comes at a cost, but you can never have enough quality offensive linemen.
Final Grade: B+
